My adventures in education cover the continuum from early childhood, through elementary and middle school, alternative programs for early school leavers in Ireland, cooperative education, community development, and adult programs for women reintegrating into the workforce. For the past 16 years, my public school experience includes: 10 years as a classroom teacher of Spanish in grades K-8, 1.5 years as a Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and 5.5 years as Superintendent. As superintendent and principal of Folsom Elementary School, I have empowered teachers to design personalized learning options for students by increasing access to digital technologies including the Google Classroom environment, robotics, film, digital photography, computer applications, and performing arts through creative block scheduling and collaborative partnerships. Under my leadership, Folsom students have made consistent year-to-year growth on standardized test results in reading and mathematics, surpassing district goals for student growth in 2016-2017 by 3-5%.

My research interests include student engagement and achievement in a globally connected society, authentic school leadership, and developing teacher leaders. I am a regular adjunct in the Rowan University College of Education’s Masters and Doctoral Programs in Educational Leadership.