About Me
Greetings!
My professional journey in education began just out of college when I started teaching first grade in the NJ elementary school that I attended as a child - working for the same principal and alongside some of my own teachers from childhood. A challenge my first year was not calling the gym teacher Mr. Phillips, but Jay. After 4 years working there, I moved to CT to pursue my Masters Degree in Education at Central Connecticut State University. Following this, I taught in Bristol for 7 years where I taught in Grades 2 and 3. I loved the time when I was able to loop with my class and have them muliple years. After having my daughter, I pursued my Library Media Specialist certificate. Just prior to becoming part of the CIS community, I worked for CCSU as an
adjunct professor teaching a class in their undergraduate education program. I also supervised student teachers around the state. This was a time of great learning and reflection for me.
Since joining CIS community as the Library Media Specialist, I've implemented a "Lunch and Lit" program which, not only is a way of getting to know the readers better but gives students a voice responding to literature in a laid back, supportive, unconditional environment. The food and beanbags have helped set the stage for many creative conversations.
When my nose is not in a book, I can be found at the yoga studio or in the woods with my daughter (10) and dog hiking. I've been lucky enough to travel quite a bit. It is a true love as I see it as a valuable education for all ages. A few years ago, for my husband's job we were able to live a dream as we were transferred to Paris for a short work stint. Another great learning experience - not to mention the food.
My family loves to play games together after dinner. Some favorites are "Fits", "Truth Be Told", "9-ball" and anything involving a ball outdoors. We also try to "star gaze" on our front lawn every now and again.
My husband and I are avid Scrabble players and love to watch movies and cook together. Most recently, I bought a bike and have found some great trails where, luckily I've only crashed once!
(some of my) Favorites
Songs: anything by Adele, "Crazy Parade" by Grace Potter, "Better Way" by Ben Harper, "Colorful" by Rocco DeLuca and "Somewhere of the Rainbow" by Eva Cassidy
Books: Really, just a few???? If pressed I'd have to say To Kill A Mockinbird, Every Soul a Star, Home of the Brave and Dog Night (picture book)
Foods: Chicken Piccata, crabcakes, mashed potatoes, chocolate milkshakes, arugula salad
Quotes: "Be the change you want to see in the world" by Gandhi
"Everything has only 1 life (except cats) and you better live that life good" by Zoe , Age 9
Some favorite quotes from Lunch and Lit conversation:
You've only lived half a life if you've never..............
"challenged yourself" by Jenna, Age 10
"been disappointed" by Grace, Age 10
"read a book", Anonymous, Age 10
"given to someone who has less than you" by Finn , Age 10
"eaten pizza" by Katie , Age 10
"loved someone", by Anonymous, Age 10
