Why did you choose to work at Portland Christian?

I chose to work at Portland Christian because I was dreaming of teaching math full time again. God called me to become a math teacher at a Christian school when I was in high school on a missions trip.

What do you enjoy most about working / teaching at Portland Christian?

So far the thing I've enjoyed the most about working at Portland Christian is the relationships I've already formed with my students and coworkers. I am also SO incredibly full of joy to be able to teach things I love and am most passionate subject wise. I'm in my 8th year teaching Yearbook now and already looking forward to the talent that is in my classes come to life in creating a yearbook!

Why did you choose your specific area of teaching?

I discovered at a young age that I loved math. My 6th grade math teachers challenged me to be placed ahead in my math classes. I really enjoyed solving problems from variety of angles. Yearbook was my second passion I found when I was in middle school. I became an editor in my high school yearbook class and was able to attend Yearbook Camp at OSU which was an amazing experience being able to attend workshops to become more proficient in creating a yearbook. I stumbled into teaching it when I lived overseas in Brazil. I have a passion for photography and graphic design, which helps me train students to create an eye catching yearbook.

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

The best thing about being a teacher is impacting lives of students whether it's helping them discover their talents and passions or helping students believe in their capabilities and push past hurdles.

What is your favorite part of the school day?

As silly as it sounds - right now it has been lunch! I have truly enjoyed eating with the other teachers. A few of us have sat together in the Junior High lounge and we have been able to connect more. It has been sweet also to connect with other students who are in there during their recess! My other part of the day is getting to know my students on a more personal level. I love to know who they are, what they're passionate about since my dream is to integrate it into the classroom.

How have you experienced God in teaching at PCS?

It was an answer to prayer being able to teach math full time again and a bonus to be able to teach Yearbook. It shows God's abounding love that He not only answered my simple prayer but gave me more than I could ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20)

Favorite scripture verse?

Zephaniah 3:17 has been a verse that has brought me through some of my darkest times. “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.”

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I love hiking any mountain or waterfall, spending time with friends, going to coffee shops, creating art, photography, writing poetry, serving in my community through Foster Parents Night Out or at With Love, and also going to any local Portland Foodie Restaurant or Food Truck.

Tell us something the students don't know about you: 

I was on a comedy team in college that traveled to summer camps in the western United States.

Anything else you would like to share? 

Proud to be a Royal!