How long have you been teaching? 

I have been teaching for over 15 years.

 

Where did you teach before Shorewood? 

I taught in Milwaukee Public Schools as well as the highest performing charter school in the state of Wisconsin.

 

What’s your educational background? 

My first degree/career is a BFA in technical theatre production. I changed careers after completing a PostBaccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education and recently received my Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership & Administration.

 

What did you do before you became a teacher? 

Before going back to school to become a teacher, I earned a technical theatre degree. With this, I worked as an assistant technical director at the Skylight Music Theatre. I also spent some time in New York City where I worked in various production support roles for entertainment, movie, television, & concert production clients such as; Alice Cooper, Annie DiFranco, MTV, HBO’s Sex & the City and The Sopranos, and the 9/11 Memorial Tribute in Lights. I've also worked with I.A.T.S.E. local stagehands union on concerts and broadway touring productions. 

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Why did you move from kindergarten to 3rd grade? 

I love to learn and enjoy doing new things. After my Master’s degree, I wanted more experience in different educational roles and instructional ages. I have had many colleagues tell me I’d enjoy teaching 2nd & 3rd grade, so when most of our 3rd grade team retired, I jumped at the opportunity to change!

 

How do you bring science into your classroom and why is this important? 

I bring science into my classroom in any way I can. I have a shelf of science themed student books, science experiment manuals for ideas, an inflatable solar system that hangs from my ceiling, a 3D printer I use with students, a toolbox with real tools and safety glasses for a take-apart center, and of course a lab coat that I always wear when performing any science related activities or lessons.

 

What’s your favorite thing about teaching? 

My favorite thing about teaching is the privilege of being part of someone’s educational journey. I changed careers because I felt a deep desire to give back to my community. I decided to be the kind of teacher I needed when I was in school but didn’t always have. Inspiring and supporting young people becoming successful and capable adults keeps me young and excited about education.

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What's something fun about you? 

I am a proud dad of two amazing, intelligent, and cool daughters. We enjoy bad (and great) monster movies, nerdy passions for games, art, and books and a love of desserts. I will always continue learning and using my skills and passions whenever and whereverI can.