Story Time with Frances

My name is Kathleen and I have a passion for stories and music! I have a bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders (Speech Pathology), Audio Technology, a background in online ESL teaching, and am currently in graduate school for a Masters in Speech Pathology. I have 4 years of classroom experience working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as 6 years of working with typically developing children. I have a passion for getting young learners comfortable communicating, creating, playing instruments and reading in front of their peers. 

As a youngster I endured preschool and first grade with paralyzing nervousness. When one of my teachers recognized my musical abilities and passion for reading/writing, she capitalized on it. I have vivid memories of spending time with her practicing singing and playing guitar during recess. My teacher stood by my side as we presented the song to my peers. She encouraged me to write down my stories and perfect my storytelling. That encouragement was the catalyst I needed to break out of my shell. I discovered I had a confidence that only needed to be uncovered and applied in the right ways. 

My classes will aim to do the same for learners on Outschool. I believe that learning is easy when a student is comfortable and having a great time, so I make sure I teach in a playful, interactive way. Thank you, I hope to meet you soon and encourage your learner to break out of their shells. 

A little about me: I am a wife to a compassionate medical student and a mother to four little ones. We live in the PNW where I love to play outside, cook, and make music. My favorite food is pie and my favorite place I've traveled to is Spain! I feel most like myself when I am outdoors in nature and with the people I love most.