Professional Background
I enlisted in the US Navy in 1994 as a Torpedoman’s Mate where I built & serviced submarine torpedoes and Tomahawk missiles. While on active duty, I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and became a commissioned officer in the Surface Warfare community (ships). After 12 years in the Navy, I separated from service and returned to my home state of Texas to become a high school Social Studies teacher. In addition to teaching Advanced Placement (AP) Government, I was the Senior Social Studies Team Leader, Head Coach of the National Champion Cheer Squad, Senior Class Sponsor, and Student Government Advisor. After moving to Nebraska, I served as the Law & Public Safety Career Pathway instructor at Grand Island Senior High where, in addition to teaching, I was responsible for advising academy teachers, administration, and district personnel on the development and implementation of curriculum and best practices in Career Technology Education (CTE).

Education
MEd. Administration, University of St. Thomas, Houston, TX
MS Politics, University of Nebraska-Omaha
BA Political Science, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA

My Educational Philosophy
I believe every student is unique and deserves a caring, inspiring, and engaging atmosphere in which they are able to grow emotionally, academically, and socially. As an educator, I strive to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing a safe and collaborative learning environment where they are free to explore, question, and take risks that develop their individuality, character, and skill sets. In addition to ensuring all students have opportunities for success long after they leave the halls of Kenesaw High School, I want our students to develop positive character and leadership traits which are essential to becoming a productive citizen.

Favorites
Sport: Football
Teams: Texas Longhorns & GB Packers
Food: Mexican
Snack: Hot Tamales & Strawberry Twizzlers
Drink: Diet Coke & Coffee
Holiday: Easter
Hobby: Studying Politics & Shooting Pool
Color: Pink
Season: Fall

Professional Background
I was born and raised in Grand Island and graduated from NorthWest High School in 2002. After high school I traveled the world with a performing arts group called the Young Americans for about 3 years. This is where I really found my love for teaching. I fell in love with the “ah ha” moments when things would click for kids. After my time with the Young Americans I returned to Nebraska where I completed both my undergraduate and masters degrees at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. My most recent position was at Shoemaker Elementary in GIPS where I taught 5th grade for the last 5 years. While working for GIPS I was able to be a part of the ELA task force, the school improvement team, was the safety patrol liaison, as well as a runner up two years for the tri-cities Ascend principal pipeline program.

Education
University of Nebraska at Kearney

My Educational Philosophy
Every student deserves a safe, engaging place to express themselves where they can learn and grow both academically and intrinsically. As an educator my main goal is to instill a love for learning into children that will serve them their whole lives.

Favorites
Sport: Football
Teams: Nebraska Cornhuskers
Food: Sushi/Mexican
Snack: Beef Jerky
Drink: Dr Pepper Zero & Coffee
Holiday: Christmas
Hobby: Photography & Antiques
Color: Blue
Season: Fall