About me...

     I have been teaching for 18 years for Escanaba Public Schools.  I started as a Title I assistant and I've taught P.E., 6th grade, 5th grade, 2nd grade, elementary vocal music, and now elementary art (grades BK-2) I've always wanted to be a teacher, and my dream was to become an art teacher.  I was inspired by my incredibly talented art teacher, Mr. Nelson, who taught both elementary art and high school art.  I was amazed that he knew so much about so many different kinds of art!  I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to share my excitement for art  and the creative process with the children of Escanaba.  Art is a class of learning, creating, and sharing.  The purpose of art is to communicate visually - a feeling, a story, an idea, etc.  Students in my class will be engaged in creative thinking and problem solving - necessary 21st century skills. 
     When I'm not teaching, I'm very busy with my family.  I am married and have three sons: Gabe (17), Jack (13), and Ty (10.)  We also have the world's best dog, Betty. As a family, we love to explore our U.P.  We often go camping, hiking and kayaking.  My whole family is passionate about community theater.  I love to paint and design sets, make costumes, and I even perform once in awhile.  My husband, Jamie, loves to direct, design and build sets, design lighting, and act.  Our latest effort was The Wizard of Oz at Bay College.  Jamie directed, I did costumes, Jack worked backstage, and Ty performed as a munchkin and a Winkie guard.  My oldest son, Gabe, was in the play Elf at the high school at the same time. It was amazing!