- Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Fayetteville-Manlius. I attended University of South Carolina and Syracuse University. Some of my hobbies include golf, video games, and hiking with my dog. I am passionate about science, Lord of the Rings, and Philadelphia sports. A fun fact about me that not many people know is that I can do the worm.
- Why did you want to become a teacher?
I wanted to be surrounded by science first and foremost. By the end of my own time at high school I knew that schools were the place for me. Positive learning environments with opportunities for both fun and knowledge.
- What made you want to teach at Jamesville-DeWitt High School?
I filled in last year for a science teacher who had left and I promptly fell in love with the place. Best staff and students in all of New York, perhaps even the world.
- How has the first month of teaching at J-D been?
Great! Still getting readjusted to having everyone in person and using paper copies for everything, but it’s super exciting. COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions have slightly limited our experimental abilities, but having everyone here and safe is what matters the most. Getting used to the staff and students has been quite easy. Something that has been difficult is making sure that my classes and I are always present at school. Can’t learn if you aren’t here. I always look forward to greeting all my students for the first time each day so that we can all make sure we are happy to be at biology class! My favorite memory so far has been attending graduation last year. I had a lot of seniors so it was very memorable to see them all succeed in one of the bigger goals in their lives.
- What is one thing that you would ask of your students while they’re in your classroom?
Be respectful of others. The golden rule is obvious but sometimes we forget how our words or actions can affect people differently. Always have respect.
- What do you hope to accomplish later in your career?
Not entirely sure yet. Maybe one day I’ll move on to administration, but for now I am just loving biology and teaching science!
