Hello! This is my 6th year teaching at Jefferson. I have taught in Des Moines Public Schools for 12 years and before my family moved to Iowa, I taught in Illinois for 6 years. I live in West Des Moines with my husband (married for 30 years), two sons, and our dog. When I am not at school, I love to spend time with my family, to read, sew and just make things. I am blessed to be able to work with students and to cheer them on as they learn and grow! I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois and my Masters degree in Literacy Education from Drake University.

I am incredibly excited to be a part of Jefferson’s 2nd grade team!  This is my 3rd year as a Jet and my 21st year in education.  I have been a part of the Des Moines school district for more than 15 years teaching preschool – 2nd grade.  Before coming to Des Moines, I lived in Illinois and taught Pre-k – grade 3 special education.

I received my bachelor’s degree from St. Ambrose University in early childhood special education and I have a master’s degree from Illinois State University in special education with an emphasis in behavior disorders.

My family and I live in the Jefferson neighborhood with our dog, Oliver. My husband and I are the proud parents of one Jefferson Jet and one Jefferson alumna!