Subject: Kindergarten Teacher

Degree: MEd Education George Washington University

Favorite Saint: St. Cecilia. I first learned about her on a 6th grade field trip to the Franciscan Monastery, where our guide shared the story of her courage, faithfulness to Christ, and martyrdom. I chose her as my Confirmation saint. She’s the patron saint of music, and while I’m not especially musical myself, I love music and plan to fill our kindergarten classroom with it!

Favorite Quote: “The best definition of a saint is someone who gets up one more time than they fall.”

Free Time Favorites: I love spending time with my kids, family, and friends. We enjoy swimming and rock climbing as a family, and I especially love baking with my daughter. You’ll usually find me with a book in hand while waiting at my kids’ sports practices, or enjoying coffee or a walk with a friend..

Favorite Sports Teams: I’m a lifelong Notre Dame fan. In addition – The Nationals, The Commanders, and Virginia Tech.

Most inspiring teacher: My 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Cohrs at St. Mary’s. She taught me how to truly study instead of relying on memorization, and she nurtured my faith by reading us stories about angels that have stayed with me ever since.

Anything else we should know about you? My Uncle Jack inspired me to become a teacher. He had a learning disability and never learned to read, though I truly believe he could have if he had been taught phonics. He was hardworking, compassionate, had a great sense of humor, and loved sharing music and dancing with our family. My oldest son, Jack, is named after him. It’s a great gift to teach your kids to read and nurture the joy of reading!