Why did you become a Teacher/Administrator/Counselor?
After spending time in lecture-hall style classes while pursuing architecture, I realized pretty quickly that a career built around quiet drafting tables and solitude wasn’t for me. I’ve always been someone who enjoyed school, thrived in learning environments, and, maybe even more importantly, liked helping others make sense of things. Teaching felt like the natural intersection of those strengths.
Something about you that would surprise students?
Something that might surprise my students is that I’m very much a rule follower and a big believer in doing the right thing — especially when it’s not the easiest option. In the classroom, I like structure, expectations, and yes…things to be done the RIGHT way.
Outside of school, though, I’m actually pretty carefree. I love the sun, I like to relax, and I don’t take everything quite as seriously as I might seem during class. That being said…even in my “carefree” moments, I still like things neat, organized, and in their proper place. Some habits just don’t go away.
Biggest Motivation for becoming your current position at MTHS?
More than 20 years later, I still love the energy of a classroom, the unpredictability of discussions, and those moments when something clicks for students. I especially enjoy pushing students to think critically, challenge ideas, and find their own voice — skills that matter far beyond any exam.
Favorite Traditions/Superstitions you have at MTHS?
I wouldn’t say I’m superstitious, but I do have a tradition of reminding my students to “follow my lead and you will succeed” — and, just as importantly, to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable”. At the start of the year, I’m honest with them: not everything will come easily, and that’s okay. I ask them to trust the process and that “there’s a method to my madness.”
Then, every year without fail, there’s a moment — usually in the middle of a discussion — when everything finally clicks for the class. Those are the moments that remind me why I’ve stayed in the classroom for over 20 years. At the end of the day, students just need someone in their corner, a champion, while they work through the struggle.
Someone you admire the Hawks Nest?
It’s difficult to name just one person because I’m lucky to work alongside so many passionate and like-minded educators. I really value being part of a community where people genuinely care about their students and are committed to helping them succeed. That shared dedication is something I admire every day. That said, if I had to name one person, it would be a colleague we recently lost this summer, Jill Ocone. We both taught in the English department, and she was one of the very first people I met when I started working here. She was so unabashedly herself — a kind soul, a respected educator, and a true friend. I miss her everyday.
Dream Vacation?
As much as I love the beach, the sun, and the sand — and often joke that I’m solar-powered — my dream vacation would actually be Iceland. It might sound like a contradiction, but I’m drawn to the dramatic views and almost otherworldly landscapes. Iceland offers such a wide range of views: waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches. It would probably feel like stepping into a completely different world. The idea of being somewhere so vast and quiet, surrounded by that kind of natural beauty, is really appealing. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause, take it all in, and just appreciate the moment.
If you had one wish, they’d wish for:
If I had one wish, it would be for more time and a greater sense of peace and presence in everyday life — the ability to slow things down just enough to truly appreciate the moments that so often pass too quickly. I think there’s a lot of value in finding joy in the simple things — sunshine, quiet moments, a sense of calm — and not rushing past them.
At the same time, I’d wish for a little more kindness and understanding in the world. Life feels lighter when people lead with those things, and when we allow ourselves the space to pause, reflect, and just be present in where we are.
Best MTHS Memory?
One of my best memories isn’t a single moment, but the many times former students have come back to visit — sometimes years later — to share what they remember about being in my class. It’s always a little surprising and incredibly meaningful to hear what stayed with them, whether it’s something we read, a discussion we had, or simply how they felt in my classroom.
These moments are a reminder that the impact of teaching often extends far beyond the classroom and long after the year ends. Knowing that I was a small part of their journey — and that something we did together mattered enough to be remembered — is something I’ll always carry with me!
Advice for students?
Trust the process, even when things feel challenging or uncertain. No one is asking you to be perfect. Not everything will come easily and its not supposed to. Growth happens in the moments when you’re pushed outside of your comfort zone, and more often than not, you’re closer to success than you think. Be patient with yourself, stay consistent, and don’t give up too quickly. Sometimes, all it takes is time, effort, and the right mindset.
