What is your favorite childhood book?

I loved the Anastasia series by Lois Lowry. I really identified with Anastasia, in part because Anastasia wore glasses and so did I.

What is your secret talent?

I started playing the piano when I was seven. Much to my mother’s chagrin, I stopped at 18, but I have started playing again.

Who was your favorite teacher in Elementary School and Why?

Mrs. Whelan was an important teacher to me from elementary school as my teacher in second through fourth grades, and as a family friend while I was growing up. Before I went off to middle school, she wrote me a card, telling me how much she believed in me. I still remember the exact words she wrote in the card. This is evidence of what great impact a teacher can have on a young person.

What is your favorite thing about teaching?

My favorite part about teaching is building relationships with students and their families. I know these relationships are beneficial to my students, but they are also beneficial to me, as I believe learn more from my students than they learn from me.

What is your favorite subject to teach and why?

My favorite subject to teach is writing. I have always loved writing, and I love modeling the writing process for my students, and watching them become excited as they discover their own writing abilities and talents.

Why are you excited to join the Willow family?

I am so excited to be at Willow this year because I am so happy to be part of a community that clearly cares so deeply for the success of its students and teachers.