I am a graduate of Evangel University in Springfield, MO. I received my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Special Education. I have worked as a paraprofessional in a special education classroom in both an elementary setting and an early childhood setting, been a 3rd grade student teacher, an elementary Special Education teacher, and am currently a 1st grade teacher for summer school. I love to connect children's interests with learning material and making it applicable to their lives. My favorite way to do this is through reading and phonics. I love to teach phonics and make it fun for kids. I have songs, rhymes, and other fun strategies to help kids learn how to read and read for the love of it! I think it is very important to love to read and to explore the world around you through books! In my spare time, I like to read, go on walks, and spend time with my friends and family.