welcome...

With over 25 years of experience as an intuitive teacher, I am dedicated to creating a nurturing and empowering learning environment for students. I hold a Doctor of Education degree in Curriculum, Teaching, Learning, and Leadership.

My doctoral studies have provided me with a deep understanding of effective curriculum design, teaching methodologies, and leadership strategies. Specifically, my research has centered around developing pedagogical approaches that cater to the needs of trauma-sensitive children, ensuring their emotional well-being and academic success. I have also developed expertise in providing professional development for teachers, equipping them with mindfulness techniques and self-care practices, and supporting them in implementing trauma-informed practices in their classrooms. By enhancing teachers' well-being, we can create a ripple effect that positively impacts the entire school community.

I am thrilled to share my expertise and collaborate with educators, schools, and parents who are committed to creating an inclusive and trauma-informed educational experience. Together, we can create a supportive space where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We will empower students, support teachers, and foster a positive and transformative learning environment.

my learning

collegiate

Doctor of Education, Northeastern University, 2023
Concentration: Curriculum, Teaching, Learning & Leadership
Dissertation: Pedagogy for Trauma Sensitive Children

Master of Science, Walden University, 2006
Concentration: Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment

Teacher Certification, Columbus State University, 1995
Concentration: Early Childhood Education

Bachelor of Science, Ursinus College, 1992
Major: Psychology

certifications

• Gifted and Talented Endorsement
• English as a Second Language (ESOL) Endorsement
• LETRS  (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling)
• Teacher Certification, Elementary Education (P-5), Georgia
• Teacher Certification, Early Childhood Education (K-5), Utah
• Certified Mindfulness Practitioner

my speaking engagements...

Trauma-Sensitive Teaching in the K-2 Classroom: The Essential Role of Professional Development and Teacher Support, Georgia Association of Colleges of Teacher Education (GACTE), November 2024

Pedagogy for Trauma Sensitive Children
The 35th Annual International Boston Trauma Conference, Trauma Research Foundation (TRF), (research poster) May 2024

Empowering Minds... Nurturing Hearts
Trauma-Sensitive Teaching for Student Resilience and Teacher Well-Being
Southern Early Childhood Association (SECA), March 2024

professional development

• Neurological Interventions for Multi-sensory Integration, Emotional Regulation and Executive Functioning, 2023
• Project-Based Learning with Priority Standards, 2019
• Formative Assessment & Scale-based Assessment, The Marzano Group, 2018
• Aligning Systems for Standards-based Curriculum & Assessment, The Marzano Group, 2018
• Project-Based Learning: Implementation & Assessment, 2018
• 21st Century Students: Rigor & Relevance, 2018

my work experience

Elementary (early childhood) Teacher (25+ years - present) Georgia/Alaska/Ohio/Virginia/Utah

I instruct diverse student populations, including English language learners, neurodiverse students (ACEs, PTSD, ADHD, ODD, Autism Spectrum), students from diverse economic backgrounds, and those with varying learning modalities. To support these students, I create a trauma-informed learning environment and implement trauma-sensitive interventions centered on mindfulness, socio-emotional development, and relationship building. Additionally, I coach individuals to achieve growth in all academic areas, including intrapersonal and interpersonal skills. Furthermore, I integrate STEM and the Engineering Design Process to foster experiential learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Finally, I develop and manage systems for tracking and analyzing data to inform plans and increase achievement and goal attainment.

I oversee project management by devising, executing, evaluating, and adjusting plans as needed. Additionally, I collaborate with educators, specialists, and administrators to plan, implement, and evaluate curriculum, assessments, and various projects. Furthermore, I communicate effectively and flexibly with different individuals, listening and adapting to meet each person's needs, and seamlessly switching communication styles for students, parents, administrators, and peers.

Founder & Director, Promise Land Preschool, Idaho (2001 - 2003)
I instituted a parent cooperative program to reduce costs and provide parent training. Additionally, I designed a curriculum that incorporated developmentally appropriate practices which included differentiated instruction, learning styles, cooperative and project-based learning.

School-Age Child Care Manager: Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska (1997-1998)

I ensured the well-being of over 200 children across four buildings, creating a safe, fun, and enriching environment.

I supervised four site coordinators and twenty caregivers, ensuring compliance with Air Force codes, and provided training and evaluations for all staff. I also authored the program’s Operating Instructions, developed curriculum, and updated policies to meet NAEYC/ASQ standards. The program received high marks on its first Air Force graded inspection.

Additionally, I served as the Alaska State representative for the National School Age Child Care Association and increased parent involvement by establishing a parent advisory board and a comprehensive parent handbook.