About Me
Core Values
I believe that being able to shift to meet the changing needs of students & stakeholders with flexibility and grace is integral to good teaching. I also believe that we have the resources and the expertise to rise above any challenges that are presented to us.
Vision
All learners will have the knowledge and tools they need to take ownership of their education. They will feel empowered to set goals, ask questions, and solve problems in a personally and culturally relevant way. All education will support the learner first, recognize their humanity, and empower them to be resilient, lifelong learners.
Mission Statement
I will increase student engagement, resiliency, and lifelong success by supporting students and teachers in building efficacy with culturally relevant and data informed tools and strategies.
About Me
I was born and raised on the Southern Kenai Peninsula, and I have three children: 26, 16, and 14. I hold a BA in History, a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) with a Social Studies focus, and a Master's in Educational Leadership. I am highly qualified and certified to teach middle and high school social studies and language arts. I am continuously expanding my expertise through microcredentials and ongoing professional development.
My family and I enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, reading, gaming, and traveling, embracing both the adventure and the quiet moments that come with living in Alaska.
Educational Philosophy & Experience
I have always been passionate about educational innovation, which first took root when I homeschooled my eldest daughter through middle and high school. I continued exploring cutting-edge, research-based methodologies while volunteering and working for Girl Scouts of Alaska and homeschooling my two younger children. My journey led me into leadership roles within KPBSD, where I have contributed to teacher mentorship, curriculum development, and instructional coaching, particularly in rural and multi-grade classroom settings.
I believe in a whole-child approach to education, with an emphasis on environmental competency, student agency, and hands-on, meaningful learning. In my work, I focus on place-conscious education, project-based and play-based learning, and blended on- and offline instructional strategies that maximize flexibility and engagement. My approach ensures students develop critical thinking skills, real-world competencies, and ownership over their learning journeys.
Current Work & Instructional Coaching
Through Wild North Consulting, I support educators in rural and Indigenous-serving schools, helping them integrate multi-grade teaching strategies, technology, and culturally responsive education. My expertise includes:
Instructional coaching for teachers navigating complex classroom dynamics
Curriculum development that blends state standards with local knowledge
Classroom design to create engaging, student-centered learning environments
Social-emotional learning implementation to support positive behavior and engagement
I thrive on mentoring and supporting both educators and students as they build resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of self in an ever-changing world. Through professional development, hands-on classroom coaching, and innovative curriculum design, I empower educators to create dynamic, relevant, and student-driven learning experiences that prepare students not just for academics, but for life.