I began working with youth as a basketball coach in my early twenties. It was always my hope to work with children and youth, and using my athletic background was the perfect beginning. I completed an English degree, with a minor in psychology at the University of Calgary. This was followed by the Master of Teaching program, also at the University of Calgary. I continued to study neuroscience and learning, as a generalist in an elementary school. I found myself questioning the hows and whys of supporting students with a variety of cognitive, physical and socio-emotional needs. As a lifelong learner, I attended every professional development session possible, early on in my career. I began to develop a greater understanding of how the brain works, as well as how to support students with neurodiversity. It is here where I fell in love with and developed my greatest passions as a teacher.

After my first son began attending Kindergarten, I made the decision to join his school as a teacher. Over the years, I have taught a variety of subjects with students ranging from kindergarten-aged to grade 9. I spent 17 years in the classroom before moving into a leadership role as a resource specialist in the school’s junior high. After diving into more time with 11-15 year olds, I found the most identifiable area of need was building executive skills. I then created a program called ‘Learning Strategies’ in which I work directly with grade 6 to 9 students, helping them develop daily habits, executive functioning skills and strategies for success with school and everyday life. This program has not only been successful in building independence and readiness for high school with numerous students, but also for my own children. Being a part of helping students expand their skill base and continue to enhance their academic and personal lives for today and the future, is what drives me to get to know every individual’s talents, interests and goals. I truly believe that every student has strengths, abilities and gifts just waiting to lead them to success.

When I’m not working with students, I spend time as a sports photographer for all three of my sons’ football teams. This gives me the outlet to use my creativity and love of sports, while spending time with my teenage boys. I love to read, specifically about neuroscience, neurodiversity and understanding teenage brain development. I also have a strong interest in home design, which has led me to the art of furniture refinishing.