What do you teach / do at TC Christian?
I teach middle school science, 8th grade pre-algebra, and high school Chemistry.
What do you enjoy most about working with students?
There was a time in my life when I said “I will NEVER teach middle school!” but I absolutely love this age group! Students are curious, creative, and independent enough to really dig into a topic. I love the energy and excitement for learning that they bring to the classroom when I tap into things that interest them.
How do you incorporate a Christian Worldview at TC Christian?
I love to teach science because it all points to our Creator! As we explore the world around us, we walk away with a better understanding of who God is and what He has called us to do here on earth.
What unique experience, talent, or interest do you bring to your role to help shape the experience of students and their families?
I am an active and relational person! Therefore, that is reflected in my teaching. As scientists, we do not work alone or in isolation. We learn together and I try to incorporate active learning into all units of study ~ This is not a sit and read about science kind of a class. We explore together, work and discuss together in groups, research together, create together, and learn together! I also love athletics and look for ways to share that love with my students. I currently coach middle school girls basketball. I enjoy watching students participate in activities outside the classroom.
What would students be surprised to find out about you?
Most of my students are surprised to find out that I didn’t become a Christian until after college. Therefore, I dive into learning science from a Christian worldview WITH THEM because it is not the perspective that I had while going to school.
How do you spend your summer breaks?
I spend my summer breaks enjoying the outdoors as much as possible with my family and friends. We love beach days and try to find different ways to be active. I love to PLAY with my family! On any given day you could find us playing baseball in the backyard, shooting hoops as a family in the driveway, going rollerblading, hitting the mountain bike trail, enjoying some disc golf, or a variety of other things. If it’s outside, we love it! (I also love the winter outdoors! I am one of the minorities that loves the snow! Bring in the skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and ice skating!
What school sport or activity do you enjoy watching?
I enjoy watching anything that my children or students participate in. This includes everything from sports to theater performances. I love to watch people use their individual gifts to bring joy to the world around them.
What is your favorite bible verse?
2 Peter 1:3 is a favorite of mine because I love the reminder that HE has given me all things for life and godliness. I CAN overcome any challenge I face because HE has equipped me.
If you could pass on any wisdom to your students, what would you share?
Life will always feeling overwhelming in one way or another if we are simply looking at circumstances. Its so important to learn to look beyond the circumstance….see the good, be thankful, look for the helpers in the midst of tragedy, enjoy the moments around you and LOVE deeply. Life is too precious to let the stress of the moment rob you of the JOY you were created to have!
In which other teacher’s class would you like to enroll, even for a day and why?
I would love to take Dr. B’s Bible classes since I didn’t become a Christian until after college. I know there is so much that I can learn! And, I don’t currently have a nickname, so I feel a little left out.
