What motivates you?
I am always up for a new challenge! I love being creative and finding different ways to meet all of my students’ needs. The awesome thing about my job is that every student I work with has his/her own unique set of challenges, so I never go into a situation assuming I know the solution. Teaching allows me to explore different avenues that help me grow as an educator and find more ways to make learning fun. Every day brings something new and exciting to look forward to!

How has your job changed due to COVID?
COVID 19 has allowed me to explore an entirely new world of teaching and learning through the use of technology. This pandemic has really forced all teachers to step outside of their comfort zones and evolve with the times. Not to mention, WE SAVE SO MUCH PAPER!!! It’s definitely been hard not getting to see our students as much, some not at all. Events like this are what make you realize how precious and valuable time spent together is. I cherish every day with my kiddos as if it’s our last.

What is something that people don’t understand about your job?
“Teacher Brain” never truly shuts off! We are constantly worrying about our students’ health, friendships, success, and overall well-being. In the morning, I map out my entire day, and in the evening, I analyze the day’s events and reflect on what can be improved for the next day. Over the weekend, I am thinking up fun activities to implement the next week and loading my Amazon shopping cart with anything and everything I see on Pinterest or Instagram. I want my students to have the best of everything, and let’s face it, I probably have a bit of a shopping addiction too!  Teaching is not a clock-in/clock-out job. We love your kids like they’re our own and sacrifice our free time to make sure they have anything and everything they need to be successful. It truly is the most rewarding job!

Why do you love VCSC/your school?
VCSC is full of opportunity! When I graduated from Indiana State and received a call from Dr. Marrs in regards to a substitute teaching position, I had no idea what was in store for me. For the past four years, I have developed great relationships at SCC with my students, their families, and the wonderful teaching staff. I have grown so much as an educator and am grateful for all the experiences and opportunities provided to me along the way.

Be sure to check back on #Staffurday–Saturday, that is–as we recognize members of our non-teaching staff. We’ll continue both campaigns through the end of the school year.

What motivates you?
What motivates me every day are my three boys and my Consolidated kids. My biggest motivator is the hope that I can help change the lives of these kids by helping them enjoy going to school and making their school experience awesome.

How has your job changed due to COVID?
COVID changed my work life tremendously by limiting the contact that I have with my kiddos on a daily basis. Sometimes when kids are having a rough day or morning, seeing your smile or giving a small hug or high five can change their day. Being in school during a pandemic has really been a struggle for students and staff emotionally and physically. Our students at Consolidated amaze me every day with how they have been coping with living through a pandemic.