As an educator, I deeply understand how important it is to build a strong community for students to learn in an environment that is safe, collaborative, and engaging. I believe all students have unique talents and gifts to share, and it is the sharing of those gifts that enhances their lives as well as the lives of others to create a better and more understanding world. My goal and why as an educator is to have every student embrace that life and learning are full of challenges and it is the struggles that help us grow, find, understand and appreciate each other gifts and contributions.

l have been an educator for over forty years. For twenty-two years, I taught in a multi-aged classroom where students were taught at their instructional levels in small groups. Best practices were continually researched and implemented. This program of incorporating best practices in education is the foundation of Alturas which allows students to receive instruction tailored specifically to their needs and provided them opportunities to reach their academic potential. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, our students are inspired to be lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and global citizens.

Through my educational journey I had the privilege of receiving a Fulbright to Czech Republic to explore Eastern Europe and develop curriculum for students to explore a global community mindset. I have also published a series of books. “Wake Up Brain”, is a series of 6 books with brain-stretching challenges in math, geography, and language arts. “Brown Bag Science” is a series of 16 books supporting grades 1st through 6th in exploring science through hands on learning activaties.

My family is an immense support in my life. Doug, my husband of over forty years, and I enjoy cross country skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, running, and biking. Our dogs, Ellie and Rosie, love to go on all our sport adventures. We are the proud parents of three children, Conrad, Rebecca, and Patrick who all have master’s degrees. Our family is even more enhanced by their spouses, Melissa, Tim, and Priya. Our four grandchildren Jameson, Gavin, Emma Michelle, and Kira are tremendous joy beyond words in our life.