I have always had a deep affection for children and have surrounded myself with children since I was 12 years old. I was the neighborhood “babysitter,” and many times I passed up school dances to babysit, rather than attend with my peers. Later on, when it was time to attend college, I was conflicted about what I wanted to pursue as a career. My dad suggested a nursing degree. He felt nursing was a perfect fit because he always described me as so nurturing and caring. I decided to take his advice and began in a nursing program. However, after two years I came home and admitted my heart just wasn’t in it. I wanted to do something I was passionate about and loved to do every day. While sorting out my options, I took time off from college and began waitressing, which I really liked. I worked at a high-end restaurant, where I made great tips and enjoyed meeting new people. During that time, I became a mother to my beautiful daughter, and then my life changed dramatically. I cherished spending every day with her and watching her learn and grow. It was then, I knew for sure, that I was meant to be a teacher.
I returned to college, earning my degree in Early Childhood Education. I took on the challenge of starting my own school to provide the type of education I felt children truly deserved. My own education continued as I pursued my Master’s degree. I am a constant learner and I enjoy challenging myself, so I have since received my 200 hour R.Y.T. yoga training. I hold two children’s yoga certifications, as well as training in Mindfulness in Education from Omega Institute in N.Y. Also, I am a C.A.S.A (court appointed advocate) for children in foster care. I feel volunteering is critical, which led me to volunteer for Horizon for Homeless children in their PLAYSPACE and to volunteer at Abby’s House, a women’s shelter, where I taught yoga to the woman in the shelter. Currently, I am going to begin training for Thai yoga massage this year.
Though I am extremely busy, I do have a healthy balance and work to keep that in my life! My husband, Dave, and I have been married for 22 years. We have two grown children and a dog, Finnegan. I love being outdoors and especially love the beach. I have a daily meditation/yoga practice. I like to read, hike, swim, and just be! I will be forever grateful for the realization that brought me to my true calling as an educator.
