I am a former Reading Team Coach and Early Childhood Advisor with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human and Family Development, with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education, from the University of Utah. I have taught kindergarten and first grade and have more than 20 years of experience supporting early literacy development.

I am a PELI mentor and am certified in Early Steps, LETRS, and Fundations. I have also received training in Leveled Reading, Step Up to Writing, and Words Their Way. Throughout my career, I have coordinated and facilitated training, professional development, and continuing education for educators working with students from toddler through eighth grade.

I am also a certified MindUP™ trainer for schools and conduct district- and organization-wide MindUP™ training. MindUP™ was created in response to the growing challenges children face with aggression, anxiety, depression, and suicide. The program is grounded in four pillars: neuroscience, social-emotional learning (SEL), positive psychology, and mindful awareness.

I have valued learning from the people around me, especially my colleagues. Some of my most meaningful professional growth has come not from workshops or textbooks, but from everyday school hallway conversations, shared lesson ideas, and observing how others connect with their students. I have been inspired by my colleagues’ creativity, patience, and dedication, and those experiences have helped shape the educator I strive to be.