Fifth - Eighth Grade

I was the kind of kid who couldn’t wait to get to school, because I just wanted to learn! Yet, when I got there, I was quickly labeled "a handful." I spent lots of time out in the hall or crying in the corner. I was even spanked by the Principal (after I threw my desk across the hall!). Nevertheless, thanks to good teachers, supportive parents, and the well-funded educational system of the 1950s, I was able to get the help I needed to be a success, so much so that by the age of 10, I was running summer kindergarten classes in my driveway for the neighborhood kids. The moms loved me. Free babysitting!

I’ve spent quite a few years of my life getting a broad-based education in speech, theater, traditional and Montessori education, home economics and English. I’ve worked off an on in various kinds of career fields, even working in the US government. But somehow, no matter what I do, everything comes down to being a teacher. I’ve had over thirty years of teaching experience in secondary schools, colleges, and industry. I know what skills are required for success in college and business, and I’m committed to developing those skills in my students. I put a great deal of emphasis on writing and expression of ideas. I try to understand what’s going on inside my students’ heads, so I can help them express their own thoughts effectively. I also like to focus on critical thinking—whether conclusions are logical and whether writing in all academic disciplines is balanced and supported by evidence, facts, or explanations.

I’ve heard it said, however, that nothing really prepares a person for parenting, except parenting. How true. I have two adolescent "handfuls" of my own, and I’ve had to throw many of the educational theories I learned in school out the window and forge some new ways of thinking on my own. I can emphasize with your parenting trials and tribulations. You’ll find me very accessible and open to forging the kind of relationships a child or parent needs and wants. I look forward to working with you and your child.