Growing up, it was never really a question whether or not I would become a teacher. My favorite activity during summer vacation was to play ‘school’, so it was no surprise I followed my passion to a career in education. After graduating from the University of Nebraska-Omaha, I began teaching in my hometown of Bellevue, near Offutt Air Force Base. While teaching 6th grade, I earned my master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Doane College. During those first four years, I built strong relationships with families and students that have remained to this day. It brings me immense joy and pride watching former students grow and build amazing lives.

I relocated to Chicago in 2011. My teaching career began on the south side where the learning community helped me grow even deeper as a teacher advocate. My time at CICS Longwood was invaluable and I will always be grateful for the wonderful people who challenged me to see the world with a much more inclusive lens. The latter part of my career was spent working at a STEM school on Chicago’s west side. The autonomy granted to teachers allowed me to discover and foster a deep love of math education. Not only was I given freedom to be innovative in my approach, but I was constantly pushed to do better and be better for my students. In those years, my skills differentiating for a wide range of learners began to strengthen, making me the educator I am today.

The year 2020 was monumental for so many reasons. I made the decision to find a professional path that allowed me to be more present for my young children. That challenge led me to follow a secret dream of starting an education-based business. So here we are! My new adventure. Thank you for taking time to visit my space. For those who are already part of my Blocks and Blocks family, I thank you for putting your faith in me. For visitors and new family members, I am grateful you stopped by. I look forward to building something strong for you and your students!