Why did you choose to work at Portland Christian?

When I was researching Christian schools and praying about where to send my own kids, God used two people to speak to me about how great Portland Christian is, and I felt God was calling me very intentionally to step out in faith from public education and make the move here.

What do you enjoy most about teaching at Portland Christian?

There's a true sense of community here. Staff and students pray for each other and try to lift each other up when we need extra support. It's beautiful.

Why did you choose your specific area of teaching?

I love to read, and I hope to share my love of literature and language with students.

What’s the best thing about being a teacher and working with students?

They make me laugh all the time. I also enjoy seeing students demonstrate their creativity in different ways. We do a lot of writing, speaking and reading, so with those varied forms of communication, creates ample opportunities to get to know each other really well and learn from each other.

What is your favorite part of the school day?

My favorite moments come when I see students admit that they are capable of doing difficult things. In past weeks, a student announced she had never written something she was proud of before she wrote her most recent essay in my class. She went on to tell me that she always thought essays were hard to write, but now she thinks that they're stupidly easy. Watching her breakthrough unfold was definitely my favorite part of that day.

How have you experienced God at PCS?

I would say that it's easy to see and experience special moments with God here; I knew from my interview when I prayed with the principal, Mrs. Banducci, that this was a special place. Most recently, I felt God's presence moving as I was worshipping next to students in chapel. It's such a blessing to see our youth step out in faith and lead chapels, too. I'm so excited for what God is doing on our campus!

Favorite scripture verse?

The last verse in John 21:25 says, "Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written." I just find that mind boggling to think about!

Tell us a little about your family, please!

I've been married for 13 years and have two children who also attend PC! Avery is 10 and in 5th grade. Logan is 7 and in 2nd grade. PC has quickly become their favorite place to be!

What do you like to do in your free time? 

My husband and I enjoy playing pickleball together. My daughter and I like to bake and pretend we're on the British Baking Show. My son and I like to play games. I enjoy reading, camping, and traveling. I like to explore a museum or antique shop on a rainy Saturday if I can find the time.

What would the students be surprised to find out about you?

I was terribly shy as a child. If you told me that I would be speaking in front of students and teaching all day long, even in junior high, I never would have believed you.