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1.) Tell us about your role as an educator. What does your typical day look like?

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Let’s just say no day is a typical day in the world of education, especially in the role of an administrator.  But there are some things I can keep constant! The morning starts with breakfast club with a group of students ranging from regular education to special education students as well as 6th through 8th grades. Speaking with students at the beginning of each day helps me set the tone. We then move to grade level halls where I am able to complete my morning greeting to each teacher and classroom I supervise. This is followed by a quick stop in the office to check my voicemail, email, and ensure that everything is in place in meeting students’ social and emotional needs before I head out to the halls for instructional observations. I keep my handy fanny pack equipped with my walkie and cell phone because you never know when the opportunity will present itself for a quick picture of a “tweetable” moment or using the walkie to help the front office staff ensure the frantic parent on the phone that their child is indeed at school, it was just an error in marking attendance. Lunch with over three hundred 6th graders lets me know we are halfway through the day and after I continue to check in with students and staff before ending the day!

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2.)  What’s your education philosophy summed up in one sentence?

 

Building and maintaining relationships is key.

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3.) Why did you become an educator?

 

I am one of those wonky people who always had being a teacher on my list of careers. I love helping people learn and grow so this career choice just seemed right. My choice was solidified when I became a teacher cadet in high school and was able to have hands on experiences in the classroom. I’ve always heard people say “teaching is a calling” and I now know what they meant, this is what I am called to do!

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4.) As an SCASCD Emerging Leader, how do you hope to have a greater effect on education in your community and beyond?

 

I would like to have a greater effect by being a voice for educators and students. I enjoy playing the role of “devil’s advocate” so that we as educators can look at all aspects of the problems we are facing and work together to ensure we come up with the best solution at the time.  I would also like to have an effect through leadership that involves advocating for student learning that truly educates the whole child.

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5.) What types of professional development (books, DVDs, webinars, courses) have made a difference in your career?

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I love any type of professional development that can help me better reach the students and teachers I serve. At the present moment I am following educational leaders who are focusing on restorative practices and closing the achievement gap. I enjoy the social media route of listening to live videos and also inspirational podcasts.

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6.) Was there a pivotal moment when you realized your career choice in education was the correct one? Describe that time.   

 

I can’t think of just one. Every day is a new blessing and I am thankful I am trusted to help mold and educate our future.

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7.) If you could make one major change in education, what would it be?

 

Discrepancy in student achievement amongst our minority sub groups would be an issue I would like to see change.

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8.) What is your most rewarding experience as an educator?

 

I think the most rewarding experiences for me are hearing students, parents, teachers and colleagues pass on words of affirmation. Hearing things such as “Thank you for empowering me”, “ You’re the best assistant principal ever”  or “ Thank you for all you do” is the all the fuel I need to keep me going in this profession daily.