Where I've Been
I was born and raised in the Poconos in Pennsylvania, where I currently still reside. I stayed in the area to attend East Stroudsburg University in college and I was fortunate to get a job right out of college at a local school district. I returned to East Stroudsburg for my Master's Degree, as well. Although I enjoy traveling to new areas, this is definitely home.
My Life as an Educator
This is my 7th year teaching. I have taught every grade level, as my certification (Health & Physical Education) covers K-12. I enjoyed every grade level for different reasons, but if I had to choose a favorite level it would be middle school (6th & 7th grade). This choice may just reflect the great years I spent with that age level. If I had to describe myself as a teacher, I would have to say understanding and real. What you see is what you get. The kids know that I am going to tell them like it is. I am myself with them. I joke and laugh, but they understand my high expectations for ALL of them. I enjoy every lesson I teach. Maybe not the first time, because it may need to be tweeked. That is one of the best parts of our job. The ability to think on our feet and change things that are not going well in a lesson. I like to try new things and my kids are beginning to expect it. I had a lesson the other day, where the rotations of people into new groups was not going smoothly. I called them in to change my plan, and one of my students said hey coach, how about we do this. This was an awesome moment for me because I know that my students not only ready for a change if need be, but that they are even thinking ahead as to how they might change it.
When I'm Not Working...
I enjoy after school activities with my students. Promoting physical activities is my life. Having clubs, activities and coaching all support that drive. My hobbies include traveling, movie watching, hiking, exploring new areas, and just about anything that involves meeting new people. I always keep myself busy that is for sure. I am waiting for the day when my "to-do list" is empty and I don't see that in my near future.