I was born in New England and it wasn't until my adult life that I made my way out west in search of the big mountains. I have lived in Idaho for 15 years with my husband, Kyle, and we've raised 2 crazy big mountain skiing children and a couple of dogs here. I am an avid mountain biker and hiker in the summer and alpine and nordic skier in the winter. I have been a K-8 teacher for 20 years, most recently a STEAM teacher for K-5 students. I believe in learning that is applicable to the real world, where students can really expand their problem-solving skills and knowledge in creative and interesting ways. Learning in the GATE classroom, where I work with grades 3-8, is dynamic and student-driven. I also have the privilege to work with the younger students during enrichment to extend their learning. In my teaching, I enjoy lots of ah-ha moments and laughter, as well as those inspiring times when my students are working outside of their comfort zones to reach a learning goal. I am so thrilled to be working at this amazing school!