Education and Specialized Expertise: My academic foundation is built upon a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, complemented by two Master's degrees: one in Special Education and another in Educational Administration. This comprehensive educational background has equipped me with a deep understanding of pedagogical practices, inclusive education strategies, and effective school leadership.Extensive Professional Experience:
My career in education commenced at the age of 19, beginning as a dedicated special education paraeducator at Indian Paintbrush Elementary. For seven years, I served students in grades K-2nd within the life skills program/personalized learning service room, gaining invaluable hands-on experience working with diverse learners, including those with autism, Down syndrome, blindness, and other significant learning challenges.Beyond the classroom, I have a strong background in coaching. I have coached both football and basketball, demonstrating leadership and team-building skills. Notably, at the remarkably young age of 20, I was appointed the head basketball coach at Laramie High School, where the team achieved the recognition of consolation champions.After completing my student teaching in a first-grade classroom, I transitioned to Rawlins, Wyoming, where I have established a significant presence at Rawlins Middle School (RMS). My tenure at RMS spans eight years, during which I have held a variety of impactful roles, including:
- Special Education Resource Teacher: Providing targeted support to students with individualized education plans.
- Fundamentals Teacher: Focusing on core academic skills and foundational knowledge.
- Assistant Football and Basketball Coach: Contributing to the success of the athletic programs, including a Regional Championship in 2020 as an assistant basketball coach.
- Activities Coordinator: Managing and promoting a vibrant range of student extracurricular activities.
- Principal: Currently serving in my second year as the principal of Rawlins Middle School, leading the school community with a focus on continuous improvement and student success.
Key Achievements and Recognition: My commitment to educational excellence and leadership has resulted in several significant achievements:
- Model PLC School Recognition: Leadership team at Rawlins Middle School when it was recognized as a Model Professional Learning Community (PLC) School in January 2024—a significant validation of our collaborative and results-oriented culture.
- Wyoming Teacher Mentor Corp: Successful completion of the Wyoming Teacher Mentor Corp program, underscoring my dedication to developing and supporting new educators.
- Crystal Apple Award: Honored with a Crystal Apple Award at the district recognition ceremony in 2023, acknowledging my outstanding contributions to the school community.
- Presentations and Partnerships: I have presented for the Wyoming Teacher Mentor Corp at the ACERES Conference in Virginia, State of Wyoming HR and Business Directors Conference Keynote. NAESP National Conference in Orlando, Florida.
Areas of Specialization and Leadership Focus:My expertise is concentrated in critical areas that drive effective school performance and student well-being:
- Discipline and Classroom Management: Expertise in Implementing Discipline/Classroom Management/Restorative Practices to create safe, predictable, and supportive learning environments.
- Family and Community Engagement: Proficient in Creating Partnerships with Families and Communities to build a shared commitment to student success.
- Adolescent Development: A deep Understanding of Young Adolescent Development informs my approach to middle-level education.
- Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Committed to Implementing Evidence-based Social Emotional Learning and Dedicating Structured Periods for Advisory/Homeroom to foster holistic student growth.
- Culture and Recognition: Focused on Celebrating Staff, Students & Families to promote a positive school climate.
Core Leadership Philosophy: School Climate, Culture, and Inclusivity. My philosophy is rooted in the belief that "Climate and culture will eat strategy for lunch every day." This highlights my emphasis on fostering trust and strong relationships among all stakeholders—staff, faculty, families, and students. I believe a supportive and empathetic environment is the essential foundation for effective teaching and learning. When trust is established, educators feel empowered to connect on a human level, share vulnerabilities, and collaboratively focus on creating the best possible educational outcomes for every student.Specialized Sub-Strands of Focus:My leadership work in school climate, culture, and inclusivity is further detailed through expertise in the following sub-strands:
- Partnerships: Building Family and Community Partnerships.
- Communication: Having Difficult Conversations effectively and empathetically.
- Equity: Meeting the Needs of All Students Instilling a Sense of Belonging and Support.
- Conflict Resolution: Navigating External Climate and Conflict.
- Staff Support: Leading Staff Inclusivity, Belonging, and Support and Prioritizing Staff Recruitment, Induction, and Retention.
- Leadership Trust: Creating Trust in Leadership and Schools.
- Special Needs: Supporting Students with Special Education Needs.
- Behavioral Practices: Implementing Restorative Practices.
- Attendance: Developing Strategies to Address Chronic Absenteeism.
- Positive Environment: Celebrating Positive School Culture.
- Learning Processes: Understanding Executive Function and Brain-Learning Difficulties.
Building Leadership Capacity: School leadership in the modern educational landscape demands navigating complex challenges and driving school improvement through collaborative systems and structures. Effective leaders empower teachers and student leaders by fostering professional development and cultivating strong relationships. This approach helps build collective efficacy within teams and develops leadership capacity among teacher leaders. By doing so, all stakeholders are equipped to contribute to various facets of school operations, promoting a shared responsibility for instructional leadership.
