Hello!  I have been teaching and working with children for over 25 years, including homeschooling my own daughter! I have a Master's degree in education, with a concentration in family and community studies, and a Bachelor's degree in journalism. I have taught students aged 4 to 16. I have taught both mainstream and Special Education curriculum. I have worked with students in classroom settings where academics are targeted, in home settings where learning and life skills are targeted, and in a martial arts capacity where physical fitness is combined with self-discipline, focus and team work. Most recently I have applied my experience to an online ESL (English as a Second Language) setting where target academic goals are combined with effective communications skills and the fun of online learning itself!  

My expertise includes writing, editing, grammar, spelling and thoroughly enjoying witnessing children having fun learning! Although I enjoy teaching in general, I am passionate about guiding children to recognize their own talents and skills.  In my classroom, I prioritize individual growth and personal confidence.  Without confidence, even the brightest child can struggle!  By creating a learning environment that is both relaxed and supportive, I have personally witnessed so many children discover that what they once thought was impossible or "too hard," is suddenly conquerable and even fun! Once fear and apprehension are removed, children become excited to learn and explore new things. It is my job, (my goal!) to help your child realize the strengths he or she has within, and to use these strengths, not only in our classroom, but also in any challenge they face in life. So, as we practice writing, or spelling or grammar, (or even karate!) in our classroom, your child will also have gained a new sense of their own abilities which he or she will carry with them for a lifetime. 

When I am away from the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my husband, my 2 dogs and my four cats!  I enjoy seeing what new foods are ready to pick in my vegetable garden or what weeds need to be plucked from my flower gardens!  I love reading and frequently have more than one book going at a time! I also enjoy writing letters to friends and family.  Most of all I enjoy checking in with my own daughter and granddaughter who live all the way out in California!  

I look forward to meeting your child soon, and working with your family to provide individual attention in a one-on-one OR group setting. I will always do my best to personalize our class curriculum to meet the needs of your child. The most destructive limitations we face are those we place on ourselves.  Let's break through those barriers and begin a new adventure!