I have been teaching for 20 years.

Masters in Instructional Design and Technology, Online Learning emphasis

Multiple Subject Credential, Single Subject (English) Credential

National Faculty, Buck Institute of Education

Profiled Educational Technology Leader, U.S. Department of Education, 2013.

San Gabriel Valley Outstanding Computer Using Educator, 2009

California Regional Teacher of the Year, 2004

Fellow of the National Writing Project
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​Google Level 1 Certified Educator
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Author: Just Ask Us: Kids Speak Out on Student Engagement

Author: DIY Project Based Learning for ELA and History

Author: DIY Project Based Learning for Math and Science

Author," 'Tween Crayons and Curfews: Tips for Middle School Teachers," EyeOnEducation Publications, 2011.

Author, "Writing Behind Every Door: Teaching Common Core Writing in the Content Areas," Routledge Publishing, 2013.

Author, "Internet Literacy," (grades 3-8), TCR, 2010.

Author, "Project-Based Writing," (grades 3-8), TCR, 2013.

Author, "Nonfiction Reading Comprehension for the Common Core," (grades 1-7), TCR, 2014.


Blogger at the following websites:          
     www.tweenteacher.com          
     www.edutopia.org (The George Lucas Educational Foundation)           
     The Huffington Post


I am married to my husband, Royce, whom I met in 2nd grade, after karate-chopping him at recess.  We have two crazy-wonderful sons: 13 year-old Benjamin and 8 year-old Samwise (yes, like the Hobbit).  The only other female in the house is our boxer/corgi mix, BiggyShorty: The Wonder Mutt.