School: Henry Burkhart and Glenns Valley Elementary Schools
Grade/Subject: 1-5, Social Emotional Learning (Social Worker)
Education Background: Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Social Work from Indiana University

What goals do you have for your students?
My goal for the students I interact with is to notice, understand, and be able to be in control of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Many times this is through telling my students that their story matters, and showing them that feelings are a natural part of being a human being. The tricky part is controlling our feelings before they control us!

Name your favorite band or musician.
I could listen to Whitney Houston or Mariah Carey for hours.

What is something your students might be surprised to learn about you?
I used to sing, and at one time I was able to sing with a choir at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Choose one and explain why: Oscar, Olympic gold, or Showcase Showdown.
Oscar for sure, I love to sing and I always wanted to be an actress when I was younger.

Name 3 people — living or dead — who you would like to invite to dinner.
My grandfather, who passed away before I was born, the cast of my favorite podcast, and Betty White.

When you were a kid, what were your career aspirations?
I wanted to be a singer, an actress, a teacher, and a nurse. I was a very ambitious kid and assumed I could balance all four careers. 

Where is the best place you’ve traveled to and why?
Cancun Mexico. It was a trip I took with close friends. It was both beautiful and relaxing.

If you were trapped on a deserted island, what are the three items you would want with you?
My iPad stocked with books, my dog, and sunscreen.

What have you been doing for fun during quarantine?
For fun, I have been playing the Sims, reading new books, and watching The Golden Girls. For work, I have been gearing up with new SEL materials and lessons for next year!