I am passionate about the world of science! Exploring the world around us and how it interacts with us and how we interact with it. I grew up in a small town in central Wisconsin, enjoying family, hunting and fishing, and participating in high school sports. As I continued my journey to the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, I focused my attention on all areas of science. My undergraduate degree was Broad Field Sciences. Minoring in Biology and Earth Science. I completed my Masters of Science in Educational Leadership and Administration from Northern Illinois University. I have continued my professional growth by attending the NSTA national conventions, ISTA local conventions, Aurora University STEM (WIP) courses, American Modeling Teachers Association - Modeling Workshop, AMTA Modeling Instructional Trainer, NSTA NGSS Facilitator, and countless hours with my colleagues in Professional Learning Communities. One of my current activities is helping to facilitate STEM education with students in K-5 grades in 5 of our most diverse and marginalized student populations.My teaching career began at Huntley Middle School in District #158. I taught 8th grade science and coached track and field. After four years, I moved to my current teaching position at Scullen Middle School. I have been teaching 8th grade Physical Science and American History from 2004-2016 and currently, 7th grade Life Science and Geography.I have worked with the most talented colleagues throughout my 23 years of teaching, learning so much each day and every year! I am very honored to be the science teacher for more than three thousand students and counting. I am looking forward to more years of teaching students how science interacts with them and the world.