My Journey with AACPS

I am an AACPS: PE Teacher, Folger McKinsey Elementary School | 2017 Teacher of the Year Finalist

My journey with AACPS began over 25 years ago, as a young child who was embarking on his first days of Kindergarten.  As one who was born and raised in Anne Arundel County, my upbringing was cultivated by many of the selfless educators and positive mentors who have belonged to, and continue to serve, AACPS.  Even today, I still hold fond memories of their tremendous influence on my life, inspiring me with their knowledge, compassion, and dedication to the teaching profession. Following my graduation from Glen Burnie High School in 2003, I knew immediately that pursuing a career in education provided me with the greatest opportunity to foster similar impressions that would carry-on for generations to come.  

That dream of one day becoming a teacher led me to Frostburg State University, and upon leaving with my degrees in Health and Physical Education and School Administration and Supervision, life brought me full-circle back to the place where I grew up – Anne Arundel County.  Over the last seven years, I have been very fortunate to serve as a physical educator at Folger McKinsey Elementary School.

Whether navigating through a labyrinth of hoops while traversing a climbing wall with fifth graders, or zipping through the hallways on square scooters with kindergartners, involving myself as an engaged participant with my students allows them to see first-hand how investing in their personal health is not only beneficial for lifelong wellness, but it can be a rewarding adventure as well.  Regardless of their interests, level of skill, or competitive drive, I personally feel most successful when my students develop connections at a young age with interests and games which keep them active through their adolescence and into adulthood.

The Anne Arundel County Public Schools system has truly been the only one that I’ve ever known, and it has been a gratifying honor to return to a district which was instrumental in molding me into the person that I have grown into.  Every single day brings new challenges to overcome and aspiring minds who covet the guidance of positive role models within their lives. I am beyond appreciative of the investment that our county’s educators once made in my well-being, and it is that same commitment which motivates me to shape today’s AACPS students in the same manner, through my physical education classes!