I began working with youth as a camp counselor in 2007. Since then, I've served as a youth worker and teacher in several non-traditional learning settings across grades and subjects. From homeschool co-ops to Boys and Girls Club, and from camp to GED life skills classes, my specialties lie in making life skills and character building relevant to today's youth. I love teaching interactive lesson plans that involve meaningful discussions, reflection, and interpersonal engagement. I have been working in teen character education and leadership development consistently since 2013.
As a former homeschooler, I know how to sneak life lessons and fun facts into hands on experiences. My style involves pairing engaging activities with time to reflect and debrief. I love any chance to get outside to learn or to use some form of technology - anything to break up traditional teaching styles and engage youth, particularly teens and tweens. I focus on including room for social emotional growth and leadership skills. Additionally, many of my lesson plans can be facilitated over distance learning platforms through use of video chat or discussion forums.
Elon University Leadership Program Graduate, Certified Spiritual Educator through Unity Worldwide Ministries
I have a B.A. from Elon University with majors in Religious Studies and English (Concentration Creative Writing) and a minor in Leadership Studies. I completed my Certified Spiritual Educator credential through Unity Worldwide Ministries in January 2020, further expanding my knowledge around teaching social emotional growth, mindfulness, and character education across religious, spiritual, and secular backgrounds.
I am a huge nerd, and can usually be found playing tabletop games, attending conventions, and devouring books in my free time.
6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, Higher Education, Adult Education, Homeschool, Not Grade Specific
English Language Arts, Creative Writing, Specialty, Science, Environment, Arts & Music, Other (Art), Life Skills, Critical Thinking, Classroom Management, School Counseling, Character Education, Short Stories, Holidays/Seasonal, Back to School, The New Year, Earth Day, Summer, Student Council, Coaching, Classroom Community