Teaching Since 1996 • Joined WTMA in 2014
Department(s)
Math
Science
Education & Experience
• Certified K-8 by State of Virginia
Courses Taught
Bio
More than twenty years of experience in math and science education has given me a passion for STEM topics. After teaching math and science in Virginia’s public schools, I began teaching my own children at home using The Well-Trained Mind as a guide, while also working as a private tutor. I have taught mathematics and science ranging from kindergarten to advanced high-school level. After working with both accelerated and remedial students, I remain convinced that a strong start will allow students to experience the beauty and logic of upper-level courses without anxiety and confusion.
I am possibly one of the oldest home-school graduates you will ever meet! I was homeschooled when home-education was barely legal, and, yes, my family did own goats. I live with my husband Josh, my youngest son, Sushi the cat, and Seamus, the unruly dog, in the foothills of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. I enjoy mystery novels, attending the theater, live music, and occasional headache-inducing logic puzzles.
As Chair of Mathematics and Science, I support our instructors in providing instruction that highlights the beauty and excitement in these fields. Our goal is to inspire students by showing them their potential and fostering a love of the beauty of the natural world. My hope is that students see themselves as capable mathematicians and scientists who are part of a global STEM community.
On teaching: My classes primarily follow a seminar approach. Algebra topics are briefly introduced then explored through student questions and comments and problem-solving. During class, work is often completed in small groups with discussion of techniques and methods afterward. Because of the challenging nature of the classes, students have at least two attempts on every assignment to complete and revise work. Each attempt is graded and then students have the option of resubmitting the work to bring up their grade with no penalty, as only the highest grade is recorded.
Teaching Sample
Question & Answer
Q: What type of student would find your class especially enjoyable or benefit the most from your style of teaching?
A:
I hated math when I was a student until college, so I try to be an engaging teacher who can laugh about my own errors. I work well with students who are stressed by math and who need to build confidence, but I have also worked extensively with mathematically gifted students.
Q: What are some of the ways you’ve seen students benefit from online learning?
A:
Online learning is a great equalizer. Students are able to focus on the subject at hand rather than how they are perceived by classmates. I love the diversity and acceptance that online learning brings.
I love that online learning helps students take responsibility for their work and their communication with their instructors and peers. I have seen how much this helps with the transition to the “real world” of college classes and job searches.
Online learning allows students to explore topics that may not be offered in every brick-and-mortar school, especially in math and sciences. WTMA offers math electives like Math and Fiber Arts, Number Theory and others as well as diverse science options like Astronomy and Engineering.
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