I worked with children, in many capacities, for close to 20 years. When working in the field of Early Childhood Education, I worked with infants through preschool. I also held positions as Assistant Director and Director of corporate-based child care centers.
After my early childhood career, I moved into public school settings. I have taught 1st grade special education, working with students diagnosed with a variety learning disabilities. I have also taught third grade and kindergarten, enjoying the challenge of working with students with a range of reading and literacy skills. It was while teaching kindergarten that I decided what I wanted to pursue. Many children, even at this young age, were already struggling with the skills they would need for success in reading. I wanted to help these struggling readers build and strengthen their reading foundations.
Graduating with Honors from National-Louis University, I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. In March of 2007, I completed my Master of Education degree (also with Honors, from National-Louis University) as a Reading Specialist. I keep current with reading issues by belonging to and receiving the journals of the International Reading Association and the Illinois Reading Council.
I am an avid reader…Ialways have a book going! I’m in a wonderful book club (I highly recommend joining one) and through these women have read great books I might not have chosen otherwise. I am also a big sports fan, closely following our local Chicago teams.
Of course, my kids keep my really busy! It seems sometimes that their schedules are busier than mine is. But, as you know, their schedules are my schedules! I’m active in PTA, my daughter’s preschool, church and other various activities as they come up.
I grew up in and now live with my husband and two children (whose pictures you will see) in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago.