 My life starts out in Spokane, Washington where I was first introduced into this world. In a matter of a couple of years my family decided it was time that I found out what cold temperatures really were like; that is when we moved to Fairbanks, Alaska where we stayed until 1986. During those few years in Fairbanks I was able to travel with my dad up the Dalton Highway, and had my first face-to-face encounter with a bear. In the early part of 1986 my family moved to the tropical climate of Anchorage and that is where I have been ever since. I am a graduate of Bartlett High School, as are my 3 younger brothers. For college I went out of state to South Dakota, another “warm” place!
My teaching experience started 5 years ago when I was hired as a 5th and 6th grade teacher at Chester Valley Elementary School. Before this, all of my experiences had been with 1st and 2nd graders. I quickly found the joys of interacting with the older students and I started to pursue a master’s degree in math so I could move up to 7th and 8th grade. I am finishing my master’s degree in teaching mathematics in the middle grades this spring.
During the summer months I tour Alaska from Seward to Fairbanks and all the points in between driving a motor coach for a tour company. This gives me the chance to show off our beautiful state and take advantage of all the summer joys Alaska has to offer. When I'm not working I enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, 4-wheeling, and a newfound hobby of photography. Basically, just enjoying nature!
As I enjoy the outdoors during the summer, I enjoy the winters that much more. Whether it is being able to go snowboarding, or just taking a scenic drive down Turnagain Arm, the winter allows one to see the true beauty of Alaska. |
