As a nervous student teacher in 2015, I was unsure of what to expect from my first experience in an independent, progressive school. Little did I know that I would be introduced into a unique, powerful, caring, educational environment where I would find myself growing as a teacher alongside my students. After completing my my student teaching placement at the Co-op and my Masters of Arts in Early Childhood Education at Kean University, I went on an exciting journey of further growth and development as substitute teacher for a year, as an assistant teacher for two, and then as head teacher!
I believe that education should be first child-driven and second teacher-guided. I try to provide my third graders with every opportunity to direct their learning on a path that will be the most interesting and engaging for each individual child by providing structures: immersive thematic units, partnerships, research opportunities, art-inspired materials and modalities. My Kindergarteners are continuously opening my eyes to new experiences and different perspectives. They are productive and on fire about their own learning. I am incredibly thankful to be in a position to learn and grow with them.
In my free time, I enjoy reading and completing puzzles. I also fill my quality time with cherished adventures with my niece and nephews. My family means a great deal to me and that is why I consider myself so fortunate to have found a second family here at the Coop.
