I am originally from Pennsylvania, where I grew up with my parents and two sisters. I studied Sociology, Psychology, and Religious Studies at Saint Vincent College while working at preschools part time and summer camps in between each year. I also spent time during those years working at a border ministry in Mexico and also going on trips supporting low income children in the favelas of Brazil. After graduating from school, there was only one thing I truly wanted to do (after being inspired by a late night PBS documentary), so I got on an airplane, flew to Georgia and began to hike through the Appalachian Trail!
Afterwards, I moved to Connecticut to help a family I knew adjust to the birth of their second child in 2008, where I met my husband. We moved to Vermont a year later, and began our family. I got my Master’s of Education from Champlain College and my Montessori 3-6 diploma from the North American Montessori Center. I then began teaching preschool in Williston.
In 2016, along with a business partner and friend, I opened The Barn School in Westford, which is an independent private school for grades K-5. I served as the principal, 2-4th grade teacher, and ran our afternoon and summer camp programs. I studied Sustainability Leadership at Shelburne Farms and have begun creating an anti-racism curriculum toolbox for teachers of all grades during that time as well.
I am now busy with my 4 kids, 2 cats, and porch garden! I also love baking soft pretzels, watercolor painting, and spending time at our lake house in New York. My husband runs the Ben and Jerry’s factory in Waterbury, and so we never have a shortage of ice cream.
My teaching philosophy incorporates the pedagogies of Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia. I believe that all children are capable explorers, researchers, and designers. I promote the development of creativity by stepping aside to allow mistakes to happen. I believe this to be the best way to teach children to accept different opinions and respect others for who they are. It is my goal to lay the foundation for a love of life long learning. We will frequently explore various art mediums, spend time outdoors in all weather, read beautiful books, and first and foremost, play!
