Why did you become a Teacher/Administrator/Counselor?
When I was a kid, I came from a pretty tough upbringing. School and my teachers were my “safe space.” It was a place I always knew I could find a kind word, a meal, and support. My art teacher, Mr. Harry Bower, was the direct inspiration for the teacher I am today. Not only was he there for me as a person, but he saw my love of the arts and new I should pursue them before even I did. I knew that I wanted to give back in the same way to a community that would help others reach their potential despite their circumstances. I will forever be grateful for the educators and support staff that helped me become the teacher, counselor, artist, and mother that I am today.
Something about you that would surprise students?
I went skydiving and loved it!!! However, I get motion sick playing third-person perspective video games. Go figure!
Biggest Motivation for becoming your current position at MTHS?
When I was looking for a job as an art teacher, it was very difficult to find positions. I was working as a professional airbrusher, which I loved, but I knew I wanted the consistency of a professional job and the chance to be like Mr. Bower, my high school art teacher. I was beyond excited when I got the position here and now it’s 13 years later!
Favorite Traditions/Superstitions you have at MTHS
I love to take part in all of the Senior activities. It is such an honor to watch you all grow up and then to see your smiles before we set you off into the world. Watching you become nostalgic about your years here and the relationships you have made in the Hawks Nest is such a special part of being a teacher here.
Someone you admire the Hawks Nest
Mrs. Heather Staples. How that woman can do all she does for this community and her family, while still keeping a smile on her face and a kind word for everyone, is truly admirable. And I am so very lucky to call her my friend!
Dream Vacation
Send me back to Jamaica!!!!!!!
If you had one wish, they’d wish for:
That my children live a happy, healthy, and blessed life where they never know the struggles or hardships that I did.
Best MTHS Memory
I will NEVER forget when Mrs. Malebranche surprised me with my bridal shower!!! She totally set me up! She had Mrs. Raimondo call me down to the office, which I was a new teacher and terrified that I did something wrong even though I couldn’t think of what I did. Mrs. Raimondo made up some type of excuse for calling me about a question for my classes and then walked me back to the art studios. Well, when I walked in to Mrs. M’s room and then heard “Surprise!” I almost fell over! I had no inclination whatsoever and felt so loved to be surrounded by all of the amazing women of MTHS celebrating my upcoming wedding. It was truly one of my favorite memories and I am so grateful for Mrs. Malebranche for that amazing day! And my baby shower that followed a few years later!
Advice for students
Though I know it is hard to not worry about the judgment of others, anyone my age would tell you to not waste your time on the opinions of others. You get one life! Live it proudly the way you want to live it! Be your authentic self because you are worth knowing exactly as you are. My best friend said to me, many moons ago, “We won’t see 97% of the people we meet again in the future, so who cares what they think!” Is that statistic accurate? I doubt it. But is the sentiment true…definitely!
