I grew up in the northwest suburbs my whole life and I graduated from one of our rivals, Buffalo Grove High School.  During my time at Buffalo Grove, I actively participated in cheerleading, class board and SADD. 
 
I received my bachelors from Butler University.  I have a major in secondary education with a concentration in Spanish and a minor in Special Education.  During my experience at Butler, I worked in the Language Lab and Tutoring Center as well as participated in the International Club.  During the spring of 1999, I lived in Salamanca, Spain for 6 months.  It was an amazing experience and it definitely enhanced my Spanish skills and allowed me to experience living in the culture of the language.
 
Since 2000, I have been teaching at Palatine.  I have taught Spanish 1, 2, 3 and 4.  I used to coach JV Drill (Poms and Flags) and cheerleading until I had my two beautiful children. Now I am a co-sponsor of Foreign Exchange Club.   We love to explore and learn about all different cultures in the world.  Also, I have participated in the Mentor Program at Palatine.
 
I received my masters in Spanish from Middlebury College in Vermont.  It has renowned full-immersion language program for undergraduates and graduates.  It was the hardest thing I ever had to go through but it was SO worth it!  I know have the background to explain the “why?” about the language. I finished the program in Guadalajara, México in the summer of 2006.   
 
During 2012, I fell in love with Zumba and decided to become an instructor.  I teach Zumba every Sunday  in Cary.  During the summer I taught Aqua Zumba as well.  It is definitely my second passion to teaching Spanish but I love that I can use it in my classes at Palatine as well. 
 
When I am not working at Palatine, I spend time with my loving husband, Chas and my two boys, Drew and Danny.  They keep me busy.  I also enjoy traveling, scrapbooking, baking and cooking in my spare time.
 
I am an open door.  If you every have any questions or need extra help, don’t hesitate to contact me.  Enjoy your year!  GO PIRATES!