While I joined the teaching profession in 1999, my career really began all the way back in my own elementary school years. I adored Mrs. H, so I decided I wanted to be a math teacher. The next year, I decided to be a reading teacher because Mrs. Barton was the best. Each year after that I re-calibrated my professional intentions based on the educator that I idolized. My love of education and role it plays in the lives of children and families has been ever present. 

Elementary education seemed to be the clear path when I found myself decorating paper turkeys with googly eyes and perfectly penned "Happy Turkey Day" on cards for my freshman hall in college. I spent 15 years as a classroom teacher, reading and math specialist and lead teacher in elementary schools. Currently, I serve as a district coordinator supporting teacher certification, evaluation, and professional development. (And I still make paper turkeys...with my own little turkey.)