My Why

I am a kindergarten teacher turned literacy coach who's favorite things include: traveling, musical theater, life as a boy mom and guacamole! 

My first year teaching Kindergarten

My homemade guacamole

That bright eyed newbie up above didn’t like guacamole. Why, you ask? I had never tasted it! It seemed potentially slimy and chunky at the same time, not a winning combination in my book. But my hubby gave me a nudge to dip a chip and now not a week goes by without that green goodness gracing our table. 

That young teacher with the big maroon glasses, she also knew little about the Science of Reading. Over the last few years, the teacher clarity and student success that has grown from my interest in (ok...slight obsession with) the Science of Reading has been a boon. Even more surprising than the avocado! 

My last year in the classroom

I feel incredibly fortunate to be an educator in this digital age and to be part of a massive community of support. As I continue to learn about the process of skilled reading instruction, I look back and have feelings of shame and regret when I reflect on ways I could have been a more effective teacher. But I find comfort in connecting with others who are navigating this same uncomfortable process of learning and growing for the benefit of all kids.

In his book Start with Why, Simon Sinek guides the reader in getting to the heart of personal purpose. This book was instrumental in my shift from classroom teaching to ELA coaching. 

MY WHY ~ To support teachers in reflecting on literacy practices, celebrating what works, and being brave enough to change. 

So if you are a curious teacher, literacy coach or administrator who is energized by research and using evidence based practices to refine teaching, welcome! Stay a while. I will be serving up some nerdy stuff, with a side of guacamole.