Simply STEAM

I started teaching in 2011, and believe me, college never prepared me for the amount of tummy aches my students would get during the school day. After two weeks of the same student complaining of her stomachache right before math, I knew something had to change. My scripted curriculum was only growing her anxiety. The real problem was that the curriculum I was using was a "cookie-cutter" solution, and my second-grade inclusion students were NOT what you would call "cookie-cutter." There had to be a way to reach all students. I spent countless hours searching for new activities to help, and the things I found were okay, but I didn't have a system. So, I wasted TONS of instructional time teaching my students the instructions. I thought about creating my own games, but I didn't even know how to make a PDF. I didn't know my students would actually like them, or better yet if they would even work. Holy cow! My games became a GAME-CHANGER! The self-checking games were not only effective but flexible enough to use at different times of the day. My students' math test scores increased by 21%, and all we did was play for 10 minutes per day. My goal is to help you achieve the same success, where you can leave the classroom confident, knowing that your students are meeting and exceeding their needs and the families are grateful you're supporting their child's needs. I've been on the struggle bus and found a way out. I'm committed to helping you do the same!

My teaching style mixes game-based learning, problem-solving, and tailored instruction for each kiddo. Flexible? You bet. I switch it up to vibe with whatever my class needs. This isn't just about making learning a blast (though it totally does that). It's about zeroing in on those tricky learning gaps and giving your students—and you—a confidence boost that's off the charts!

2013 - 2014 STEM Teacher of the Year for Richlands Primary 2014 - 2015 STEM Teacher of the Year for Richlands Primary 2015 - 2016 STEM Teacher of the Year for Richlands Primary Presenter at North Carolina Literacy Association "Motivating Reluctant Readers and Writers" 2016 - 2017 STEM Teacher of the Year for Richlands Primary Presenter at TPT Conference "Put Some STEAM in Your Step" 2017 - 2018 STEM Teacher of the Year for Richlands Elementary Presenter at Richlands Primary "Magic of Writing in Mathematics" 2018 - 2019 STEM Teacher of the Year for Richlands Elementary 2018 - 2019 STEM Teacher of the Year for Onslow County

I received my B.A. in Elementary Education (K-6) from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. BONUS: I'm also licensed to teach English as a Second Language (K-12).

My Mission Statement: I'm all about giving elementary teachers and their students the routines and systems that make learning simple. I aim to spark real classroom conversations, empower kids, and cultivate a genuine love of learning. My Core Beliefs: ⭐️ Relationships First: Because real learning happens when we connect. ⭐️ Time-Saving is Life-Saving: Your time is precious; let's make every moment count. ⭐️ Teachers are Superheroes: No capes needed, just courage and heart. ⭐️ Be a Blessing to Others: Kindness is the ripple that creates waves. ⭐️ Every Student Can Shine: Different stars, same sky. ⭐️ Inject FUN Wherever Possible: Because joy is the best teacher.