Being certified at every level of education, I have had the privilege of teaching elementary, middle, and high school students. Prior to teaching, Iwas the Director of Children’s Ministries at my church. I also have experience working with children through youth camps, coaching, and other community based programs. Through this diverse experience, I have realized that children are the same regardle
ss of where they were born, how much money they have, or what age they are. I understand that race, gender, socio-economic status, or religion does not change the fact that all kids have one thing in common. They all desire to know that someone genuinely cares about them. Madeline Hunter once said, “Kids don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.” I have spent a lifetime showing students that I cares. After finishing my MA in Elementary Studies, I was invited to become an adjunct professor at my alma mater. Her primary course of instruction was called Strategies for Effective Teaching. As I entered the classroom, I took these effective strategies with me and was able to manage behaviors in my classroom fairly well. However, these strategies were often ineffective. I became frustrated with the idea that I was spending a majority of my time dealing with behaviors. I was even more frustrated that this was causing me to lose valuable time. Unable to successfully change this, I considered leaving the classroom to find another field of employment. Then, I became a national trainer for Time To Teach at the request of my principal. He wanted me to bring this training back to the school to train my colleagues. This school wide training and implementation of these proven, research based strategies has not only transformed my classroom, but it has helped to change the entire culture of the school. Because of this tremendous success, I decided to further my credentials by becoming a national trainer in Differentiated Instruction. I am personally aware of the struggles teachers face each and every day in the classroom. My experience and training, combined with my ability to teach others with integrity, common sense, and a bit of humor will inspire and motivate you to be a more successful educator. I will help you discover your potential to be more effective in the classroom. Most importantly, I can remind you of your true purpose and calling as a teacher.
