About My Classroom
I strive to make my classroom a place that is safe for exploration, creativity, individuality, and risk-taking. We learn early on that mistakes are okay and are an essential part of the learning process. We focus on progress and excellence, not just in the content we are studying, but also in the ways we grow as individuals, as teammates, and as well-rounded citizens of a larger community.
Education Background and Experience
I received my BME in Music Education in 2009 at the University of Colorado Boulder with an emphasis in string pedagogy, and completed my Master's of Music Education at the same institution in 2017. I also received my Mindful Teacher Certification from Mindful Schools in 2021. I began teaching middle school and high school orchestra in St. Vrain Valley in 2009. After that, I was at Webber Middle School for ten years where I taught Orchestra, Band, Digital Photography, History of Rock and Roll, and Intro to Drama. In 2020 I taught high school students in PSD Virtual, and in 2021 I joined the PGA team to teach K-8 Music, as well as high school classes in music and various electives. I teach classes for the Options program on Fridays as well! Music remains an important part of my life– I currently play violin with the Health and Wellness Orchestra in Fort Collins, sub for the Denver Philharmonic, and sometimes play for weddings as well. Focusing on balance and personal health is a big passion of mine. Being healthy is all about taking care of the WHOLE person, and I intend to model this as best I'm able. I am especially passionate about wellness, and believe that incorporating daily mindfulness is an impactful element of overall mental and physical wellbeing.
What I Love Most About Teaching
I love facilitating student growth. It's such a joy to watch students work through the learning process and grow into accomplished young humans who are independent thinkers. Students daily inspire me with their fresh outlook on life and their energy, creativity, and honesty. They remind me what it means to be a lifelong learner and to have a little fun in the process! I am honored to have the privilege of working with them.
Activities & Interests
Activities: Baking, cycling, archery, hiking, playing violin, collecting gems and minerals, and playing video games.
Interests: Football and hockey (Broncos, CU Buffs, Avalanche), travel, personal wellness, mindfulness, and anything related to cute animals.