Childhood Background:  I was born in Austin, Texas and grew up in San Saba, Texas about 2 hours Northwest of Austin.  I used to “play” school and always wanted to be a mom and a teacher!

Education:  I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Applied Learning and Development.  I moved to Houston and earned my ESL certification from the University of St. Thomas while teaching in Alief ISD.  I am also certified in Early Childhood Development.  I taught 2^nd grade for 2 years in Alief ISD and then taught Kindergarten for 5 years in FBISD—1 year at Lakeview Elementary and 4 years at Lexington Creek Elementary.  I was blessed to be able to stay home with my daughters for 15 years!  I returned to education in 2013 at Oakland Elementary.  In 2015-16, I enrolled in Texas Women’s University for training in Reading Recovery.  James C. Neill opened in the fall of 2017 and I have been teaching first graders here ever since!  This will be my 17^th year of teaching 😊!

Family:  I have been married for 30 years to my wonderful husband, David, with whom we have four beautiful daughters.  Reavis is 25 years old and received her B.S.N. from the University of Mary Hardin Baylor.  She is a R.N. in the Dallas area.  Hannah and Camryn are 22 years old.  Camryn graduated from Stephen F. Austin University in May and will begin her first year of teaching here at Neill Elementary as a Kindergarten teacher.  Hannah will graduate from UT Tyler in December with a teaching degree in math.  She has been offered a position to teach 7^th grade math with Tyler ISD in January 2023.  Jordan is a 20-year-old junior at the University of Texas and is pursuing a degree in biology. 

Hobbies:  I love to cook, travel and read.

Favorites:  I love coffee, tea, chocolate and Mexican Food!

Scripture: “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”  Psalm 139:14