I am an educator, writer, and program builder who believes deeply in the power of steady instruction, strong relationships, and foundational skills to change lives. My path into teaching was shaped by lived experience: I entered adulthood as a student who had struggled with reading and academics, then went on to become a 4.0 graduate and award-winning teacher by learning how transformative the right instruction and persistence can be. Over the past three decades, I have taught in some of the most challenging environmentsrural, under-resourced communities, high-need classrooms, and unfamiliar cultural settingsoften by choice. I have built literacy programs from the ground up, worked one-to-one with struggling learners, and helped students gain not only skills, but confidence and momentum. Beyond the classroom, my work has included youth program development, outdoor and experiential education, nonprofit collaboration, and extensive writing and communication. Whether teaching reading, mentoring young people, or leading programs, my focus has always been the same: meet people where they are, hold high expectations, and never give up on them. I bring experience, reliability, and empathy to everything I doand I believe meaningful change happens through patience, trust, and showing up every day ready to do the work.

My interests reflect a lifelong commitment to learning, curiosity, and hands-on engagement with the world. I am deeply interested in literacy, education equity, and the ways foundational skills—reading, writing, and problem-solving—open doors for individuals and communities. I enjoy writing and storytelling, particularly work that explores place, history, and the connection between people and the landscapes they inhabit. I have a long-standing passion for outdoor education, conservation, and land stewardship, shaped by decades of work in wilderness, ranching, and environmental settings. Fly fishing, hiking, and time spent in wild places are both personal pursuits and extensions of my teaching philosophy—spaces where patience, observation, and respect are learned naturally. I am equally drawn to practical, hands-on work. I enjoy building and repairing things, learning new trades, and tackling projects that require persistence and problem-solving. These interests support my belief in experiential learning and the value of applied skills alongside academic ones. Mentoring and coaching—formally and informally—have always been central to my life. I enjoy working with people of all ages, helping them gain confidence, develop competence, and see their own potential more clearly. I also value community involvement, nonprofit work, and collaborative efforts that strengthen people and places over time. Finally, I am a lifelong learner by nature. I read widely, seek out new ideas, and remain curious about how education, environment, and community intersect. Whether through teaching, writing, or quiet study, I continue to pursue growth with intention and humility.