Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself and what hobbies/sports you do.

A: This is my first year here at Huron and my 12th year teaching high school art. I was born in Michigan and lived out in Arizona for many years before moving back. I go for lots of hikes and do yoga. I’m also a yoga teacher.

Q: What do you teach and why?

A: In all my years of teaching I’ve been an art teacher. My first memory of wanting to be an art teacher was in elementary school, so it was something I knew I wanted to do from the beginning. I wouldn’t want to teach anything else since I think art’s a great way for people to interact with the world and develop the brain.

Q: Have you always been interested in art?

A: Yeah, I have always loved art for sure. I feel like I was such a stereotypical art kid especially in high school. I took AP Art Studio and I was like that introverted kid with the sketchbook who was always in the art room.

Q: What/who inspired you to become a teacher?

A: I thought my art teacher in elementary school was very cool and I wanted to grow up and be just like them. So, I went in to college freshman year for art education and that’s what I graduated with.

Q: What do you do in your free time?

A: When I’m not being a mom or a teacher I read a lot of books and hang out with my family.

Q: What is one motto you will always live by?

A: “Make smart life decisions: be good, eat leafy green vegetables, wear a seatbelt, hydrate, do your homework, clean your room…” Usually rambling suggestions I have every Friday at the end of class.

Q: What is your favorite teaching moment?

A: I’m not sure if it’s one specific moment as much as a phase that students go through. I’ve always liked to teach intro level classes because I get students who claim that they can only draw stick figures because they “can’t do art”. Then, they end up trying art and it shocks them. I always love that “holy crap I just did this” moment where they’ll just sit there quietly, astounded and also proud. They’ll have a slight grin on their face like they’re trying to keep themselves calm, and that’s when my heart explodes.

Q: What surprised you about this year?

A: I had a general idea that I would like it here at Huron, but I am pleasantly surprised at my depth of devotion to the school already. I love the students, the staff, and the general vibes here. Everything about it is exactly what I want.