Spotlight on U (Teachers)

What do you teach and why did you become a teacher?

I teach sixth grade science. I became a teacher because school was one of my favorite places growing up. I was always eager to learn and I’d come home and teach my stuffed animals in the kitchen everything I had just learned that day. They were a very attentive class!

That love for learning never left, and over time, it turned into a passion for sharing that excitement with others. I want to create a classroom where students could not only grow academically, but also feel safe, supported and seen. I’ve been lucky to have teachers in my life who taught me far more than just academics. They helped shape who I am. My hope is to be that kind of teacher for my students.

What is your favorite memory from your teaching career?

It’s hard to pick just one favorite memory because every day in the classroom brings new laughter and meaningful moments. What I cherish most are the relationships I build with my students. Those connections make teaching truly rewarding.

I love witnessing those “ah-ha” moments when a concept clicks and it brings excitement and joy. Those are the memories that stay with me and remind me why I love this profession so much.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to aspiring teachers?

My biggest piece of advice for aspiring teachers is to be patient with yourself. Teaching is a journey filled with learning curves and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. Stay curious, stay flexible and never lose sight of the impact you have beyond academics. Sometimes being a supportive presence can change a student’s life.

Describe your most creative lesson plan. How did you make the topic fun for students?

In my experience, the most effective and memorable lessons are the ones that are hands-on, engaging and a little unexpected—the kind students still talk about years later. While I recognize that taking notes and covering content is essential, I also believe learning should be fun, interactive and meaningful.

Some of my favorite lessons involve food as a teaching tool, because who doesn’t learn better with a snack? For example, I use Oreo cookies to model the moon phases, root beer floats to demonstrate the states of matter and a Jello STEM lab to simulate how hurricanes affect structures. I’ve also used cookies and crackers to explore the physical properties of matter. These activities not only bring science concepts to life, but also encourage creativity, collaboration and a lot of laughter, which is when the best learning tends to happen.

What do you do for fun in your free time (outside of teaching)?

Outside of teaching, I love spending quality time with my family–my husband and son. When I get a little time to myself, I enjoy reading, sipping on a good cup of coffee and taking walks around my neighborhood. 

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

If I could have any superpower, it would definitely be teleportation. My dad lives in Arizona and since my family isn’t all that close by, I wish I could just snap my fingers and be there instantly—no airports, no long drives, just showing up whenever I want. Teleporting would make visiting family so much easier and less stressful, and honestly, it just sounds fun!

What is your favorite season and what do you enjoy doing during that season?

My favorite season is definitely fall. I love wearing sweaters and the beautiful changing colors of the leaves. I enjoy sitting outside with a good book and a warm cup of coffee, soaking it all in. Fall also brings so many memorable moments: fall festivals, carving pumpkins, celebrating holidays and spending quality time with family.

If you could pass on any wisdom to your students, what would you share?

If I could share one piece of wisdom with my students, it would be this: Every day might not be perfect, but there is always something good in every day. Life has its ups and downs, and learning to find those small moments of joy or gratitude can make all the difference. I want my students to know that challenges are part of growth, and even on tough days, there’s something positive to hold onto.