I attended Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, where in 2002 I received my bachelor’s degree in education, specializing in kindergarten through 12th grade physical education. I began teaching in School District 308 in 2003 at Traughber Junior High School. I earned my master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., in 2006. I transferred to Plank Junior High School when it opened for the 2006-07 school year and have loved it here ever since. I have had the opportunity to teach sixth, seventh, and eighth grade classes in my 20 years in School District 308.