WHAT WERE YOU LIKE AS A STUDENT?

Learning was hard for me.  In elementary school I had to seek help in reading and math.  In middle school and high school I was just an average student.  My high school guidance counselor recommended that I attend a smaller college so I would receive extra attention and support.  His advice led me to Ripon College where I learned to love literature and to enjoy learning about learning.  I graduated in 2005 with a bachelor's degree.  I majored in Regular Elementary Education with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education (licensed birth to 6th grade) and an additional minor in English.  I later attended Cardinal Stritch University and completed 18 of 32 credits towards a masters in English as a Second Language and as a Reading Specialist.  Now I love to learn and I especially love researching how children learn.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BE A TEACHER?

I just love kids!  I knew I wanted to work with children since middle school and I can’t imagine doing anything else.  I specifically love working in early childhood because of the freedom we have to learn in authentic and meaningful ways.   Little kids inspire me to be creative and to think in less traditional ways.  I enjoy constructing lessons inspired by our conversations and their interests.  It keeps life interesting!

WHY DID YOU BECOME A WILDCAT?

I left my last school to seek employment at a public school.  The elementary school down the road hired the teacher who taught kindergarten here at St. Bruno.  When that happened the principal at the time, Lisa, asked them to give her their next runner up.  They gave her my name.  I actually turned Lisa down for the interview.   She called back, I accepted the interview and became a Wildcat that weekend.   Saint Bruno Parish School just feels like home now.  I feel like I can be myself.  I feel the love and support from the community.  It gives me assurance that I am in a safe place physically, emotionally and spiritually.  That is what I want for myself and my students.  I can’t imagine working anywhere else.  This is more than just a job.  I am in for the long haul!

HOW WERE YOU CALLED TO CHRIST?

My parents always told me that they left the church because I was “naughty” in church and they always left church angry!  We went a long time without attending church and with little discussion of our faith. 

As I grew into adulthood I found that God kept calling me back.  I worked at a Christian-based daycare for 7 years, I worked at a Catholic school in Milwaukee for 9+ years and I was called to work at St. Bruno in 2014.   Time and time again, I find Christ calling me to work in Christian based institutions.   I believe God calls me to serve Him through my employment.  

It is my calling in life to improve the quality of life of others.  I believe I do this through education and this brings me great fulfillment.  I feel very blessed.     

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR TIME OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL?

I run the Waukesha County Chapter of Dress A Girl Around The World.  We sew dresses for children living in extreme poverty worldwide.  Dresses are counted, packaged and distributed from my living room.  Dresses are free and are typically delivered by organizations going on mission trips or medical missions.  We’ve made over 1000 dresses and several hundreds of shorts and tote bags.

Additionally, I assist my husband and his partner in the running of their small business, Arcadeholics.  We designed, programmed and manufactured an arcade game called Cosmotrons.  There are about 50 arcade machines distributed to locations throughout the state at this time.

My husband and I love vintage sports cars and have a rotating collection of vehicles.  I find enjoyment from creating mosaics, painting with acrylic paint, and making art with Posca pens.  We have 2 cats and will be getting chickens in spring!

WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO REMEMBER?

Remember that you control your perspective on life.  I love these two quotes:  

“Today is a Good Day To Have a Good Day!” 

 “The grass is always greener where you water it!”