As a kid, I loved all things science. In high school, I could often be found hanging out in the science lab, tutoring my friends in Chemistry and Biology during lunch or studying for a Science Olympiad event, but I did not have much direction. I fell into teaching by accident at The Ohio State University while pursuing my Bachelor’s of Science in Biology. After spending hours a week in the lab as an undergraduate, I knew I did not want to pursue a position in research. I was truly happy when I was working with kids as a volunteer volleyball coach and found my direction working with students in science.  I then went on to earn earn my Masters in Secondary Science Education at the University of Akron. 

I began teaching in 2001; I have taught at Buckeye Valley High School (Delaware, OH), Weston High School (Weston, MA) and since 2006 have been at New Albany High School.  I have taught in almost all high school content areas (Biology, Physics and Earth Science) and all levels (CP, Honors and AP) areas but Chemistry is the subject I enjoy teaching most.

As a teacher, I have evolved and grown but the biggest change came in the summer of 2007 when I enrolled in a course through the Ohio State University to learn a different instructional strategy: modeling. The course opened my eyes to student misconceptions and shortfalls in chemistry and most importantly my own. Modeling is an instructional method rather than a set of standards to be taught. It is a method that engages students in authentic scientific labs and discussions in order to construct a scientific model to explain the physical phenomenon observed. Since 2007, I have worked with the Chemistry team to redesign all of the curriculum to employ modeling.  I have also participated in follow-up workshops in curriculum development using modeling and also taught a modeling class for teachers through Ohio State. 

When the school day ends, I get to hang with my favorite people: my kids and husband. My other job as a mom (aka: cheerleader, chauffeur, chef, tutor, personal shopper, medic and the list goes on… ) is the best. I am a devoted Cleveland Guardians fan and of course every Saturday in the fall I am watching Buckeye football.