I love the joy on a child's face when they understand something for the first time, the curiosity and creativity as students work together to discover something new, and the pure joy that third graders have for learning! It is an honor and a privilege to be able to work as a team alongside you this year to help your child grow academically and socially. Third grade is such an enriching year of growth for each child; communication between school and home is essential to student success.

Prior to teaching at Sugar Creek, I taught kindergarten for two years at Benjamin Elementary School and one year at Cedar Ridge Elementary. I have found my “home” teaching at Sugar Creek and am excited to move to third grade this year. I'm grateful that this is my fourth year working with such a talented and supportive staff and such fantastic families! “It’s a great day to be a Cheetah!”

I grew up attending Unit 5 schools and my love for teaching and learning developed due to the amazing teachers I encountered when I was a student. I attended Oakdale, Pepper Ridge (when it first opened), Parkside Junior High, and Normal West High School. I graduated with a degree in elementary education from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville in 2008 and have taken a number of special education courses to advance my ability to meet the needs of all learners. I am currently working on my master’s degree in reading from Illinois State University.

My husband and I have been married for seven wonderful years and we have a spunky two year old little boy named Eli. Being parents has brought more love and joy to our lives than I ever could have imagined! We love walking to Ewing Park together, working on home projects, and enjoying our favorite summertime treat – Gene’s Ice-cream!