Mathematics Teacher

The motive behind choosing a career in education is to contribute to the community in a meaningful way. Teaching is one of the most direct ways to impact young people in a positive way. Teaching is about helping students in different ways—socially, emotionally, and preparedness for college and the real world. I believe in the transformative power of education--it has the power to change lives. Learning has been an ongoing process in my 13 years as an educator. Learning is a symbiotic relationship between educators and students.

I am passionate about teaching. I believe that each student’s growth is important, and that the teacher plays as much of an important role as a parent in the student’s growth. Active engagement during the lesson ignites curiosity and encourages critical and analytical thinking. Connecting lessons to the relevance of the real world captivates student attention. I believe in understanding each and every student, as it plays an important role in students’ emotional growth mindset.

School Counselor

I have served Elizabeth Public Schools for over 28 years, beginning my career in the district as a teacher in the Adult Education Learning Center and in sixth through eighth grade before making the transition to school counselor in 2003. During my years as a school counselor, I have assisted countless students with college and onsite admissions, scholarships, community service projects, and course selections. Additionally, I have served as a supervisor of the SAT testing center and as a facilitator at Good Grief in Morristown, an organization that provides students with support to process their grief of losing a parent or loved one.

In 2024, I was awarded Counselor of the County by the New Jersey School Counselor Association at the 38th Annual NJSCA Professional Recognition Awards Program. In addition to this year, I was previously recognized by the Governor’s Educator of the Year program as Educational Services Professional of the Year in 2017.