Can you tell us a little about your background and how long have you been a teacher at St. John School?
I was born and raised in lovely New Hampshire. I received my Masters of Education in NH, and came down to Boston for my Teaching Internship at the Eliot School. Immediately following the internship, I was hired as the assistant in my Kindergarten classroom. It was a valuable experience, and the knowledge I gained has helped to prepare me for our wonderful St. John School. This is my first year here, and I am absolutely thrilled.
What attracted you to teaching?
I’ve always admired a child’s complete fascination with the world, people, places and things. A child’s positive and excited energy is infectious. I always knew I wanted to work with young children, and Kindergarten is the perfect fit.
What is most rewarding about being a teacher?
The most rewarding part about being a teacher is providing the love and encouragement that will help foster the academic, emotional, and social growth of the child. Witnessing the whole growth of the child is incredibly fulfilling.
What is one thing you wish someone had told you before you started your first day of teaching?
Prepare even more lesson plans than you think to be sufficient. The days will go by quickly and it’s crucial to stay ahead with your planning.
What’s the newest, freshest approach you are bringing to your job as a St. John School teacher?
In my Masters program, we linked all our lesson plans with the Common Core State Standards. I have a strong knowledge of the grade expectations and transitions of the Common Core. I’m also a strong advocate for a hands on, sensory based, and differentiated approach to learning.
What is the hardest thing about being a teacher?
The hardest thing about being a teacher is ensuring every child gets ample individual help and attention.
What is something your students have taught you?
My students have taught me to be mindful of how I execute my lessons, and to continually strive for a creative approach to teaching.
What do you like to do in your free time and why do you enjoy doing it?
I love to spend time with friends and family, they mean everything. I enjoy playing tennis because I want to improve my game. I love to explore new parts of Boston, and go to events, games, and concerts.
What’s your favorite funny story about yourself?
In 5th grade, my friends and I entirely choreographed, dressed up, and danced to the BeeGees “Stayin’ Alive” for the school talent show. We thought we were awesome, but we probably looked like a hot mess.
What was your favorite toy (or game) as a child, and why?
My favorite game was “Ollie, Ollie, Oxen Free,” which is essentially a capture the flag game. My friends and I would play in our backyards for hours.
