What led you to become an educator, and what do you love most about teaching?
I was inspired to become an educator because of another educator. I never truly enjoyed history—until college, when I took a class with Mrs. Brown. Her passion and approach completely changed how I saw the subject. She brought history to life in a way that sparked something in me, and that experience stayed with me. What I love most about teaching is the opportunity to create those same kinds of moments for my own students. I love watching them grow, discovering what excites them, and seeing that spark of understanding or curiosity light up. Just like Mrs. Brown did for me, I hope to ignite a love for learning that stays with them long after they leave my classroom.

How does your faith influence your work in the classroom and with students?
For me, God always comes first. My faith reminds me that each student is uniquely created by Him—no two are the same. Every child reflects a different part of His design, with their own strengths, challenges, and learning styles. As I teach, I seek God's guidance in how to reach and support each student. I ask Him to help me present lessons in ways that truly connect and to give me the words to speak encouragement and purpose into their lives. My goal is to help them grow not just academically, but also into the individuals God has called them to be. I see my role as partnering with Him in helping students discover their potential and walk in the plans He has for them.

What is something unique about the way you teach or the way you connect with students?
I believe true understanding comes through experience. Just like with faith—people can hear about Jesus all day long, but it's when they experience Him that it becomes real. I take that same philosophy into my classroom. I want students to experience their learning, not just hear about it or memorize facts.

My teaching style is rooted in a constructivist approach, which means I guide students to build their own understanding by exploring, asking questions, and making connections. Rather than doing all the talking, I act as a facilitator—creating an environment where students take the lead in their learning. They’re in the driver’s seat, actively engaging with the material and discovering how it connects to their lives and the world around them. This approach not only makes learning stick—it empowers students to take ownership of their growth and become lifelong learners.

What are your favorite things to learn, explore, or talk about with students?
I love talking with students about Jesus and history—two topics that are deeply meaningful to me. History comes alive when we connect it to real people, real events, and the bigger story of how the world has been shaped. I enjoy helping students see how the past impacts their present and future, and how God’s hand can be seen throughout it all.

But beyond that, I truly enjoy exploring whatever sparks my students' curiosity. Whether it's science, literature, current events, or a passion project, I believe the best learning happens when students are engaged and excited. I strive to create a classroom culture where questions are welcome, conversations are meaningful, and every student feels seen, heard, and valued.

When you're not at school, how do you like to spend your time?
Outside of school, I love spending time with my family and connecting with my sisters in Christ. Whether we're talking about Jesus, sharing life, or encouraging one another, that fellowship is deeply life-giving to me. I also enjoy reading—there’s always something new to learn or a story to get lost in—and yes, I do love a good shopping trip now and then! Whether it's a quiet moment with a book or a fun afternoon out, I value time that refreshes my spirit and keeps me grounded.

What’s one hope or prayer you have for your students this year?
My deepest prayer for my students is that they would begin to see themselves the way God sees them. In a world full of noise and mixed messages, I want them to know that their true identity isn’t found in others’ opinions, but in the love and truth of their Creator. I pray that the noise of the world would quiet, and that each student would learn to seek God for direction, purpose, and identity. My hope is that through our time together this year, they’ll grow in confidence, character, and faith—becoming who God uniquely designed them to be.