I have a gentle personality and as such I have been well-suited for working with elementary-aged children.  Colleagues have commended me over the years for never raising my voice.  Indeed, I have always maintained a calm presence, even during my most challenging assignment teaching a class of 31 without an educational assistant. 

This past semester, I completed training in TESOL and worked with adults while on an academic English practicum. It felt great to teach writing skills at a higher level as well as work with students from around the world. In 2000, I finished with a contemporary option for my English degree because I wanted to read literature from around the world.  I was always interested to talk with people from different places.

Since then, while teaching for Frontier School Division in Northern Manitoba, I have continued to write stories and descriptions through journaling. I brought my love of writing into the classroom, designing stories with the students’ names and funny instances that took place, real or imagined. 

Teaching is also learning. I never want to remain static so I keep up to date on my methods and techniques. There are so many resources out there, so in that regard teaching is easier than it’s ever been. I read and watch many videos, not just about education but also for pleasure because no matter what, I’m always learning something. So many ideas I bring back to help me in my teaching. I also enjoy hearing styles and techniques which work for colleagues so I’m always ready for my next classroom adventure!