ELA 101

The most exciting happening in my life as of late, is the birth of my children.  My son, Calder, was born in March of 2007 during my first year here.  Arriving a month early, he continues to surprise me daily with new words and discoveries.  A short seventeen months later, we welcomed our daughter Seneca into our family.  She is the perfect addition to our home and has perfectly plump and kissable cheeks.  Calder is an amazing big brother.  I can’t wait to share with my students, the many stories inspired by my children! 

Professionally, it seems incomprehensible that I’m already entering my sixth year of teaching.  I spent my first two years teaching fifth grade and the following four years at the middle school level.  While I enjoy both, I feel the structure of the middle school setting allows suits me better. 

I graduated from Albion College with Bachelor’s Degree in English and Speech Communication in 2000 and obtained my teaching certification from Aquinas College in 2004 and my Master’s Degree in 2006.  Prior to my career in education, I worked for nearly three years at a food brokerage firm in Grand Rapids.  

Following my first year of teaching I participated in the Summer Institute of the Lake Michigan Writing Project.  That experience has transformed the way I approach teaching and has been an integral part of my life, both professionally and personally.  For the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of attending the National Writing Project annual meeting in various parts of the country.  Just as I impress upon my students, getting beyond the classroom and learning things through experience has been amazing!  As a result of these conferences and workshops, I’ve had the privilege of working with exceptional educators from around the country.

Contrary to popular belief, teacher’s don’t really live at school, though it feels that way at times.  In addition to spending time with my family, I also enjoy participating in a creative writing group, reading (or listening to audio books on my iPod), singing in my church worship band, exercising (my latest endeavors have been 5k road races!), baking (which is why I need to run!), photography, and now – blogging!