Please tell us a bit about yourself and your family.
I was born and currently reside in Bucks County. I attended La Salle University in Philadelphia, PA, where I studied Elementary and Special Education. I later earned my Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Rider University. I have been teaching for 30 years in the Council Rock School District at Rolling Hills Elementary School. I met my husband, Tim, through mutual friends 27 years ago. Together, we have three children: Delaney, 23; Bridget, 20; and Logan, 17. My parents still live locally and we spend a lot of time with them and family and friends as well.
Please tell us about your current, past, or future career.
I began my teaching career in a small rural district in Oxford, PA. Following this, I taught first grade for two years in Bristol Township, PA, a school close to my heart as it is my alma mater. Subsequently, I served as a Learning Support Teacher in Council Rock at Rolling Hills Elementary for approximately ten years, teaching grades 1, 2, 4, and 6. For the majority of my career, I have been a regular education teacher, primarily focusing on first grade, with a recent assignment to second grade.
What do you love most about what you do?
I’m all about using fun and creative ways to get young students excited about learning. Creating a space where kids feel safe, comfortable making mistakes, and happy to celebrate each other’s successes has been a big win for me. Adjusting the curriculum to fit my students’ diverse needs has made my job both rewarding and challenging. One of my favorite things is celebrating student achievements by doing a cartwheel for the class, which they always love. I’m grateful to teach in such a supportive environment with amazing students, families, colleagues, and administration. I feel truly blessed!
What is a “Must do” for someone visiting our community?
Some of my favorite restaurants are Harvest, 59 Almshouse, Canal Street Grill, and Playa Bowls. A must-visit for local tourists is Shady Brook Farm, where I particularly enjoy the nightly entertainment and the beautiful, family-friendly atmosphere it offers.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?
I would love to explore the Amalfi Coast and Hawaii.
What advice would you give to people?
Show more empathy, faith, love and compassion. Live within your means and appreciate each other.
If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where would you meet for this lunch?
I would like to meet Jade Warshaw, George Kamel, or Rachel Cruz. I have a strong interest in finance and budgeting and listen to their podcasts daily. Of course, we would meet in their hometown of Nashville, Tennessee!
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I hope to spend more time with my family and friends in Ocean City, New Jersey. I look forward to reading more books, traveling, boating, volunteering, seeing Broadway shows and exercising.
What is something interesting that even your friends or family may not know about you?
As a former dancer, I have always valued the importance of physical activity. I have over seven years of experience teaching Zumba classes and have also instructed barre classes at local gyms. Currently, I attend Barre 3 and Orange Theory. In addition to structured fitness activities, I enjoy spending time outdoors walking our dog, Cody. He became a beloved part of our family during the Covid pandemic, when my husband transitioned to working from home after commuting from Yardley to New York City for 30 years.
What is your favorite holiday and why?
My favorite holiday is Christmas. Each year, we visit the Old Homestead Tree Farm in Lehighton, PA in the Poconos to cut down our tree. Growing up, each of my children would take turns selecting the tree, creating a cherished family tradition. We spent many wonderful years at my parents’ house in the Poconos, and this memory is recreated annually. I love sitting by the fire with a cup of coffee, enjoying family time. My favorite moments are when all of my children are together.
Who inspires you to be better?
My family and friends serve as examples of hard work and dedication, showcasing love, loyalty, and commitment to each other.
What are some of your favorite smells?
Coffee, Yankee candles, the beach, and chocolate chip cookies
What words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
My husband’s cooking, heated blankets, fireplace, rest, family, and love.
