Experience Summary
As an award-winning writer, my track record offers you a fresh perspective on how students can tap into their critical thinking to better prepare them for Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) tests as well as other real world writing skills necessary to be responsible citizens. As a third-year teacher, some key strengths I offer include a two grade level jump or higher in reading levels in 75 percent my Reading students; a 3.8 Reading/Language TVAAS score—above the 2.8 state average; and training and experience teaching using the Language! approach.
Teaching Style
Teaching is not a job to me; teaching is a calling that places a responsibility on me to provide my students with the tools they each need for success. I consistently design my lesson plans based on Tennessee State Academic Standards--making high stakes assessment items a priority. When creating lesson plans, I use multiple assessments to evaluate students' comprehension of the material presented; use a variety of research-based methods, activities, and materials to present new information; and integrate intructional experiences that mirror students' real life to better help them relate to the material.
| Type |
Level |
Year |
Title |
Issued by |
| Degree |
BA |
1998 |
Journalism |
San Diego State University |
| Certification |
Teaching Certification +30 |
Dec. 2005 |
Middle Grades Education 5-9 |
Western Kentucky University |
| Degree |
M. Ed. |
2007 |
Education (with an endorsement in ELL) |
Trevecca Nazarene University |
| Certification |
13 credit hours |
2007 |
Differentiating the Curriculum for High Achievers |
In-Service |
| Certification |
19.5 credit hours |
2007 |
Middle School Comprehensive Literacy Frameword |
In-Service |
| Certification |
30 credit hours |
2006 |
Language! |
In-Service |
| Certification |
18 credit hours |
2006 |
Classroom Organization and Management Program |
In-Service |
| Other |
Awards |
1998 |
writing awards |
Kentucky Press Association |
| Other |
Award |
2000 |
writing award |
Society of Professional Journalists |