I am a licensed language arts teacher who specializes in helping students discover new ideas and cultures through literature and critical reading, and express their own unique ideas and perspectives through writing. I graduated from Portland State University with a degree in both English and French, and later obtained my Master's of Arts in Teaching from the University of Portland. Since becoming a teacher, I've worked in small, rural schools, and large, suburban ones. I've taught classes in Language Arts, Drama/Theater, Leadership, and lead workshops where students completed their Essential Skills graduation requirements. My expertise is working with students grades 6-12 and adult learners. I love to help students explore their interests and hone their writing skills in English, but I am also here to help learners of French as well. I studied abroad in Poitiers, France, which was one of the most enlightening and fantastic experiences in my life. My chance to spend a portion of my college education in another country is just one example of how education enriches a life. When I have free time, I can be found outdoors camping, hiking, and swimming, or quietly at home cooking, baking, reading, and playing the piano and guitar.