What do you teach at Deer Lakes?
I teach K-2 General Music at Curtisville and 4th/5th grade General Music and Band at East Union.
When did you know you wanted to be in education?
I’ve always wanted to be a teacher! I knew early on that I wanted to teach music (probably in 4th or 5th grade).
What do you enjoy about your students?
I love the excitement of performing a piece together, whether it be in music class or band. Or, the shared experience of listening to a moving piece of music together and the discussion that happens afterwards. It’s so powerful. It’s amazing to witness the moment when they realize how exciting it is. Plus, music is just so much fun to make together! It's so important and special.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teachers were my band teacher, Mr. Cenna, and my piano teacher, Mrs. Rushmore. You can make such strong connections through music. They were, and continue to be, such an inspiration to me.
What do you enjoy when you’re not teaching?
I love spending time with my husband, two kids, and my dog. My dog’s name is Biggie – he is a 160-pound Mastador (3/4 English Mastiff, ¼ Lab)! I also love to read, crochet, and play the piano and bagpipes!
What’s at the top of your bucket list?
My ultimate bucket list item was to visit Machu Picchu! I was lucky enough to do that in 2012. Now I would love a chance to visit the Galapagos!
If you could be a member of any past or current band which would you join?
Technically not a band, but I would love to be a part of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra or the pit orchestra of any Broadway musical.
If you could have a superpower what would it be?
To be able to fly
What’s your favorite family recipe?
I call it tuna-less noodle casserole. There’s supposed to be tuna in it, but I don’t eat meat. So...it’s basically just really gooey, cheesy macaroni and cheese! So good!
What’s your favorite dessert?
It’s a tie between cheesecake and ice cream. But, my absolute favorite is cherry cheesecake ice cream from Brusters...it’s hard to find!
What’s your favorite movie?
Not actually a movie, but I love to watch Hamilton on Disney Plus.
If you could pick one person to play you in a movie who would it be?
Idina Menzel
What can you reveal that people might not expect about you?
I have been a vegetarian for 28 years!