My classroom teaching career began in the early 1990’s. I began as a substitute teacher and then took a position as a classroom assistant in a 5/6 multi age classroom as well as a Special Ed tutor in grades 2-4. In the classroom I co-taught with two amazing teachers, who felt confident enough in my skills and our communication, and we often split the classes into thirds. The principal allowed me share my love for technology by leading “Technology Night” at school, and often would ask me to attend the School Board meetings to share my analysis of the uses of technology in teaching, even way back in 1993. From his prompting I enrolled in the Teaching Program at Norwich University. I graduated with my teaching degree in 2003. My professors would say, “You’ve got freshly minted knowledge now to change the teaching world.” While in Vermont, I served on numerous state committees to improve the use of technology in education, develop writing prompts and rubrics, and served as grade level chair. Today, I’m in a school that changes the world! I am so proud to be an A.B. Combs teacher for the last 2 years.
Using technology in teaching is my passion! I’ve witnessed the great learning transformation in students and know we are preparing our students for a world filled with technology. Many of the jobs our children will hold someday do not even exist yet; they will be created as technology increases. However, when I look at the sparkle in the eyes of my students as they control the click of a mouse, I can’t help but be inspired to learn more myself about teaching using more tools of the 21st century business world.
My husband, who is a former Teacher of the Year 2007-2008 at Holly Springs High School, shares my love and passion for the teaching profession. We often go to watch our students in sporting events, plays, dance recitals and chorus performances. Our commitment to developing strong, positive relationships with our students is unwavering. My personal investment in my students is my inspiration. I adore my students and develop high expectations to achieve both my and their absolute best. I credit my students, past and present, for the recognition I am currently receiving as Teacher of the Year. I also thank the many amazing teachers and the administrative leadership that I am honored to work with for demonstrating time and time again, professional excellence and determination to reach every child, every day, every where in our building.
