What do you do at PSS and how long have you been here?  I started at PSS in January 2020 in the Sages classroom. I am now the teacher in the Maples classroom.

What initially attracted you to work at PSS and what do you value about working here now?  I discovered PSS when looking for a school that focused on teaching the whole child. When visiting, it became clear that this was true of PSS and I saw a loving community that was very supportive.  Whether it was the parents supporting the staff, the school and other parents or the educators supporting other educators and families; everyone was willing to jump in and support.  I value working here because there is strong communication between the staff. We have such a caring team that faces each situation with compassion and the ability to problem solve and be flexible.

I also fell in love with the location of this school because of the ability for the students to access the natural environment so frequently.

What’s something you’ve learned teaching or working here?  I’ve learned many things from the educators here. Most of all I’ve learned some carefully thought out words to use when supporting children with their needs and through disagreements.  I’ve learned so many ways to help children feel constantly heard, and loved and ways I can communicate that can help them to navigate their feelings.

What do you look forward to in your role here each year?  I look forward to exploring the beauty of the land that surrounds the school. Reaping the benefits that the natural world offers that supports the students and educators learning, and social/emotional well being. I also look forward to working with such a passionate, collaborative team of educators each day.

What educational background, or ongoing professional development, do you draw upon in your work at PSS?  I have a BEd with a specialty in outdoor education. I have taught an outdoor physical education program for K-7 and have spent many years working at camps. I also have experience teaching in nature school programs and learning from a variety of outdoor kindergartens. I hope to always draw from these experiences to offer a well rounded program for my students.