I have been teaching for over 20 years, with experience in elementary and secondary Music and Drama, and K-5 Math and Reading. After spending time in the PSD Curriculum Department, I am excited to return to the classroom and teach 5th grade at Traut. Prior to teaching, I attended Penn State University, University of Wyoming, and University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where I earned Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate degrees in Music Performance. I performed in local and regional musical theatre before discovering that my true calling was teaching. When I'm not at school, I enjoy reading, exercising, singing, and spending time with my family. Husband Gary teaches Social Studies and Science in Westminster, Al is a junior who plays trombone in the marching band at Fossil Ridge and rec hockey at NoCo, and we all love our 6-year old papillon pup Chip. I'm so grateful to be a part of the Traut community and the 5th grade team!
I admire so much about the Traut Community. The team is highly skilled and experienced, as well as warm and welcoming. The community contributes to the school in many wonderful ways, and the students are eager to learn. The Core Knowledge curriculum and philosophy are excellent, and our Parent Patnership along with student Character Education lead to a learning environment that emphasizes achievement while building important skills and character traits.
Reading (especially cozy mysteries), music (singing and listening), exercising, travel, family time and attending my child's performances and hockey games
All Cozy Mysteries, books by Terry Brooks, especially the Shannara series, Toni Morrision, Barbara Kingsolver
Courage is the price that life exacts for granting peace.
-Amelia Earhart
We will focus on learning, working hard, being kind to others, and cooperating as a classroom community. There's always time for fun, too! Let's get excited about learning and growing as individuals and as a team!
Math, Reading, General Music, Choir, Drama