Where do you teach?

Feelhaver Elementary

What grade/ subject do you teach?

K-4 TAG/Student Support

Why do you teach?

I became a teacher to be a champion for kids. Not only do all kids deserve high-quality learning experiences, they also deserve at least one person that will advocate for them as a person. I strive to be a positive, kind, and respectful adult for all kids.

What is your favorite part of the school day?

Honestly, any time I am with students it is my favorite. If I had to choose, I would say third- and fourth-grade book clubs. Reading and discussing high-quality novels with the students has been enjoyable. My background has always been lower elementary so having the opportunity to work with older students to have deep conversations has helped me grow as a reader too.

What are you working hardest on right now?

I am working hard on developing ways to extend student learning by incorporating technology.

What are you most proud of as a teacher?

The relationships I build with staff, students and families. I truly care about people and want them to know I am here for them.

What makes you happiest as a teacher?

When a student says, “This is my favorite group.” I am so happy when the students feel safe to take risks and have discussions freely when we are working together.

How do you contribute to/how are you involved in our community outside of school?

Now that my own children are getting older and more independent I hope to become more involved in community organizations. I currently support Dodger Booster Clubs and the variety of activities my children are involved in at school and outside of school. I have been in a play at the local Hawkeye Community Theater and hope to be involved in another one soon. I have also taught Sunday school at church.

What are your interests/hobbies outside of school?

I love to hang out with my husband and our three children. We like to ride bikes, watch movies, bake/cook together, and play games. I also like to learn new things personally and professionally.

What do you wish your students/families knew about you?

I am a forever Dodger. I have been a part of the Fort Dodge schools since I was in kindergarten. I left for college and returned after graduation for my first teaching job about 20 years ago.

What does Together We Rise mean to you?

Together We Rise means that we are all in. All staff, students, and families work together to create a culture of care, learning, and hard work, so we all learn and grow beyond what we ever thought we could.