Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I was in my 30’s and my children were all school age , I was spending a lot of time at the school volunteering in the classroom, with the PTA, and the technology team.. A few of the teachers approached me and ask “Why aren’t you a teacher” my response was always I am to my children at home. They encouraged me to go back to school and follow my dream.

What has been your most memorable moment as a teacher?

One year the kids raised money for Children’s Hospital by making rose petal pen toppers. The kids were able to go the hospital and deliver the check personally. Another big year was the Rube Goldberg “Pop a Balloon” Children’s Museum contest. The children created a device (8 stages) that would ultimately pop a balloon. This was a teacher hands off STEAM activity that the children paced first in and were rewarded by creating a flexible seating classroom to enjoy. That was great fun.

What is your favorite part of Future Goals and how are you using it in your classroom?

Future goals is even more valuable to my kids now that I have 19 in person, 4 days a week, and 9 remote students. Trying to balance the experiences between the two groups is a daily challenge. My favorite part is that the kids LOVE earning the time allotted to the program. In my classroom Future Goals hockey math is an enrichment and reward stem opportunity for early finishers to use as well as a tool for enrichment. There are times I have to say “no” not right now.

What was your student’s reaction to the program?

Excitement. When I first was introduced to Everfi by Alyssa, and brought the program to my students, they couldn’t believe they were allowed to play a STEM game on the computers at school. They could earn a trophy for the game case and would proudly stand with their certificates to be photographed for our bulletin board. The kids loved play learning and the disappointment was audible when it was time to return to the classroom.

Who is your favorite hockey player?

Could your question be any easier and for so many reasons. Number 1 we share a birthday. IF you look at the man’s character, he is definitely someone that I would want my students to emulate. His work ethic, perseverance and the leadership that he demonstrates is motivational, plus he is a blast to watch. Sidney Crosby