1. Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Plainfield, Illinois which is 40 miles outside of
Chicago.
2. How long have you been with ADNPP?
This is my first year!
3. What is your teaching background and experience?
I graduated in 2007 from Illinois State University with a Bachelor’s degree
in Early Childhood Education. I have worked in Kindergarten classes and
taught Fifth Grade. I love all grades but Kindergarten is the place for me!
4. What do you like most about your job?
I like making kids smile. Instilling confidence in students is my favorite
thing.
5. What do you think is special about your ADNPP
location?
Amber is a fantastic school to work at. The staff is welcoming and
wonderful. We also have fantastic parent involvement. It is a wonderful
community to be a part of.
6. What is your favorite part of the day
at ADNPP?
I love story time. Books are my favorite and I love to read a new book
everyday.
7. What is the last book you read out loud?
Big Chickens by Leslie Helakoski
8. What is the last book you read to
yourself?
No Water for Elephants
9. What is the funniest thing a child has
said/done in your class?
While going over classroom rules on the first day we got to the rule of
keeping your hands and feet to yourself. One girl said, “But hugs and kisses
are okay.” I explained to the class that we don’t hug and kiss in school
because you don’t know if a friend would like that and we need to respect
personal space. A boy shouted out, “I don’t know, hugs are pretty good!”
10. What do you do in your spare time?
I love to hang out with my family and friends. I enjoy
walking my dog Rusty to Starbucks.
11. What achievement are you most proud of?
I am most proud of moving to California! I am far, far away from home but
love it here.
12. What should children look forward to doing/learning in kindergarten?
Reading! We are becoming readers. We are also becoming independent
and getting ready for First Grade.
13. What is the single best piece of advice you can give parents of kindergarteners?
Help your children to become independent. Give them chances at home to do
things for themselves. Things as simple as zipping their coat, carrying
their own backpack, being in charge of cleaning their rooms, and setting the
table.
14. Do you have any healthy lunch ideas?
Trail mix. It is nutritious and provides energy.
15. Do you have any learning to read tips?
Read, read, read with your kids. Have fun with reading. The more you love
it, the more they will.
