I am a Reading Specialist at Long Beach Elementary School. I attended Western Illinois University, Macomb, where I received my bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a minor in language arts and environmental education.

I taught kindergarten and first grade in Cicero and Steger school districts with breaks in between to stay home with my children. In 2010, I completed my master’s degree from St. Francis University, in Joliet, Ill., as a Reading Specialist, and in 2012; I completed Reading Recovery training from National Louis University, Chicago, with ongoing professional development.

My interests outside the school day include reading books, oil painting, and taking walks in nature. The biggest rewards at Long Beach are engaging with students, collaborating with a caring staff, and conferencing with parents.