Education:

I graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in English Education and a Spanish minor.  I received my Master’s Degree in Spanish Education abroad through the University of Southern Mississippi in Michoacan, Mexico for two summers and spent a third summer studying  in Spain.  I began my Spanish teaching career in 1995 at Palatine High School and have been here ever since!!! 

 

Outside of the classroom:

During my free time I love to travel and feel like it is an extension of my teaching career.  Aside from teaching I have coached Speech Team and have had the privilege to travel to Costa Rica with PHS students.  What a great experience!!! Throughout the years I have assisted with various clubs and activities including the Student mentor program and Foreign Exchange Club.

 

Aside from my life as a teacher I am a proud mom of three!  As a family we enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, skiing, and my most recent love, attending all of the “fútbol” (soccer) games that my children are involved in!  I also enjoy running, yoga, eating out and simply enjoying life as it comes to me.

 

Philosophy on language:

Having grown up in a dual-language household, English and Greek, I have learned that the only way to become fluent in ANY language is to USE it! 

 

By making mistakes we become experts!  Practice, Practice, Practice!!!