What unique strengths, identities, traits, values and/or interests do you have that influence what you offer in classes and our community?

I have a background in biology and have always had a deep love of science. I think one of my favorite traits about myself is my boundless curiosity and I live to share that with others, especially young kids. I also have a passion for language learning. While my first language is English we are attempting to raise our children bilingual with German. I also speak passable French and a handful of phrases from assorted other languages. I would love other multilingual families to share with the class as they see fit. 

I have had a complicated parenting journey thus far and I’m passionate about supporting other parents as they walk this path too. Community is very important to me and I’m hoping other families can find community in our class. 

Where did you grow up? What early childhood experiences did you have outside, with animals, plants, water, soil, fire, etc. that led you to teaching at PLG or enjoying nature?

I grew up in Eugene, mostly in a house in the woods south of town. I spent much of my free time as a kid exploring the woods, making forts, and enjoying nature. From a young age I have had a passion for animals of all kinds. I spent time volunteering at the human society, attending (and later working) at a ranch summer camp, worked at a vet clinic and volunteered for the cascade raptor center. Every animal at PLG plays an important role, both those that we brought here and those that were here before. 

What philosophies or practices are important to you when engaging students? What’s your approach to supporting kids and families & engaging them in learning?

Learning can only happen when there is genuine interest, especially for our youngest learners. I want to make our classes both fun and engaging. I want to meet kids and families at a level that feel accessible while also pushing them to learn new things and expand the comfort zone. 

What experience & education do you have that you want to share with the PLG community?

I have a bachelors of science in biology and spent some time working in the lab of a drug discovery start up. I then went back to school for a masters in public health focusing Health at the human animal interface which I have used in my work for the Washington state department of health. 

I grew up going to a wide care of summer camps which naturally transitioned into working there as a counselor. During college I also tutored and worked in a before and after school care program. 

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy spending time outside, both hiking and enjoying more secluded nature as well as in my own garden and local parks. I love my garden and I’m constantly battling my lack of sun, and lack of natural aptitude with plants, to grow a food garden. Spending time with my kids keeps me pretty busy, but I also love to read, sew, and craft. Luckily as my daughter is getting older I’ve been able to do more of these things with her. Before kids I was an avid runner and I am hoping to get back to that soon, in ways other than just chasing down the toddler.