Determined to See Every Child’s Potential

My passion for empowering young learners to reach their potential was fueled by my own experiences as a young, quiet, over-looked student in my public school in Virginia. Throughout my elementary and middle school years, my potential was never seen or encouraged. So, I set out, determined to be a teacher who saw each child’s potential, ability, and individual story. My educational philosophy is influenced by one of my personal heroes, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who’s dream was for each person to be valued for who they are. In that spirit, I see the child and am a facilitator of growth in their educational journey.

I started teaching in AACPS in 1990, being a pioneer in differentiated instruction and advanced programs in our county. My goal for every student is that they become independent, confident, high-achieving students that see and reach their individual potential. I challenge myself daily to discover what is needed for each of my students to be successful and implement strategies to help them discover their abilities. Each child is a precious treasure which their parents entrust to me daily. I take this responsibility seriously and embrace each child as part of my own family. With that mindset, I cultivate an environment of respect and trust. As an integral part of their education, I hope to empower students to see that their choices are instrumental in their life journeys.

Although obstacles may be in their paths, I guide each student to recognize their ability, realize their self-worth, and discover their own path in life. I believe that each of my students has the power to succeed. After 30 years as an educator in AACPS, I have seen the positive ripple effect of this philosophy.