I am a teacher-educator and a nature lover, and I currently serve as an advisor to graduate students pursuing a master’s degree in early childhood education. I have worked in the field of education for over 20 years. I taught various grade levels (pre-K-8^th grade) in Scottsdale Public Schools and Head Start in Arizona, and I worked as a regional consultant for Missouri Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). I also partnered with families as a special education advocate and educational consultant for the Law Office of Susan Marks. Drawing from my eclectic background in education, I prepare future teachers to authentically create holistic learning opportunities and environments that are welcoming and educational for children and families.

My academic interests include improving teaching and learning in higher education, offering active and engaged learning opportunities, and promoting work-life balance for teachers. My passion is supporting teacher candidates in getting themselves and young children outdoors as much as possible, and I am an active volunteer with Missouri River Relief and a member of the Children & Nature Network. I am pursuing a graduate certificate in early childhood and family policy to positively influence local educational policy. I teach a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses in early childhood.

Areas of Expertise

• Early Childhood Education
• Special Education
• Children in nature
• Classroom ecology and community