I am pleased to report that I will be back and better than ever in my Outschool studio this fall 2023! My experience working with children goes back to when I was a teen nearly 30 years ago! I was a competitive gymnast as a child, experience which I have used to teach thousands of children the fundamentals of the sport. In addition to coaching gymnastics, I have worked with children of all ages in theater, dance, arts, baking, special education, preschool, and elementary school. 

Teaching Style
My style is both laid back and high energy. Students work at their own pace. In gymnastics or yoga, to stick with the easier version of a pose of skill is always an option, and verbal positivity is a focus (“straighten your leg” rather than “stop bending your leg”). In baking, I check after every step to ensure the class is together before we move on to the next step. Wins and hard work are celebrated with cheers and virtual high fives, and there's always time for a little chit-chat at the beginning an end of class. Given my background, it's no surprise that I can be theatrical, expressing loads of enthusiasm for my subjects and my students, and my stand-up comedy and improv experience come in handy no matter what discipline I am teaching. My classes are inclusive, for children with all types of needs. Feel free to contact me regarding your learner. 

Education
I have a BA in Theater Arts from Thomas Edison University. My Capstone research was on integrating theater arts practices into elementary school classrooms. My children's yoga certification was completed in 2010 and my Safesport certification was most recently renewed in 2023.  

Professional Experience
1994-1998 Gymnastics Coach for recreational and pre-team (as a high school student)
2000-2010 Theater Arts Professional, working as an actor, cabaret performer, stand-up comic, and choreographer
2004-2009 Gymnastics Coach for recreational, pre-team, and USAG Levels 4-8
2009-2019 Gymnastics Coach, Gymnastics Program Director, Camp Director, Gym Manager
2019-2022 Elementary School Paraeducator
2022-2023 Took an amazing career opportunity to create a program for a new gymnastics facility owned by an Olympic champion!

Hobbies
I love to cook and bake for my husband and two children. On the weekends, we like to cozy up and watch movies (80s classics and Studio Ghibli are favorites).  birthdays. The adrenaline enthusiast in me enjoys an occasional military-style obstacle race or jump off a cliff into the ocean. Long bike rides through the woods and early morning yoga are my favorite ways to both exercise and relax!

Availability
My regular class schedule includes Monday and Friday afternoons, EST. Teaching schedule is set about six weeks ahead of time. I do my best to accommodate schedule requests, but with finite availability, sometimes it's just not possible. I would be happy to work with all of your learners! 

Private lessons are by request only. I will also run any one-time class as a private class for 3x the cost of a single learner. If we can find a time to work together, I am happy to accommodate you.