I was born and raised in Perry, Oklahoma, and have proudly spent more than 20 years teaching in the community that shaped me. I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in special education from the University of Central Oklahoma. Over the course of my career, I’ve had the opportunity to teach a wide range of students—from 3-year-olds to adults—which has given me a deep appreciation for lifelong learning and the unique strengths of every individual.
In addition to my classroom experience, I have worked with the Cerebral Palsy Association in Rochester, New York, and served as a Disability Service Specialist for the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education. These roles have further strengthened my commitment to supporting individuals with diverse learning needs.
I come from a close-knit family and grew up with my parents and my sister, Sheena. Today, I enjoy spending time with my two nieces, who I absolutely adore. I am married and we don’t have children, but we have two beloved dogs, Ember and Ella, who are very much part of our family.
Outside of teaching, I have a passion for science and the natural world. I love exploring national parks, learning about plants and insects, and spending time in nature. One of my proudest accomplishments is having visited 51 of the 63 U.S. National Parks—and I’m always looking forward to the next adventure.
