When I received a chalkboard as a kid, I had no idea that playing school would have such a profound impact on my life. Now, as I reflect upon my career choices, I know that this was the beginning of a beautiful relationship. I have had the pleasure of teaching at every instructional level from preschool to graduate school, all within the western New York area.
I began my career as an English Language Arts teacher, where I resisted the dominant paradigm of skill-and-drill teaching practice. Instead, I sought to assess the strengths and weaknesses of my students and built curriculum, lessons, and collaborative learning opportunities accordingly. I also found myself actively involved in many other venues, particularly the musical theater program.
While teaching was quite fulfilling and rewarding on so many levels, I left the comfort of my classroom in 2003 to pursue my doctorate in English Education at the University at Buffalo. The experience was invigorating, as I came in contact with many kindred spirits who loved the classroom, loved literacy, and loved helping students thrive! During this time, I provided professional development support to local teachers in the areas of writing instruction, the 6+1 Traits of Writing, and writer’s workshop. My affinity for technology and connected learning infused this work, and it continues to be an integrated part of everything I do with the teachers and students that I serve today.
In addition to consulting with WNY Education Associates, I teach graduate classes at D’Youville and Medaille Colleges. My courses inspire teachers to make diverse curriculum choices and actively engage students through multi-modal learning. I’m passionate about the creative use of technology and the integration of literacy and the arts across the curriculum.