Education:

B.S in Special Education from The College of Saint Rose 

M.S. In Reading from Western Connecticut State University 

When did you join the SMS Family?

August, 2006

What makes the Middle School age so special?

What makes the Middle School age so special is that you are able to see student growth happen so rapidly over just three years time.  They go from first being able to use a locker in 6th grade to eventually being able to make a Capstone presentation in front of a room filled with faculty and community members in the 8th grade.

Do you have a favorite Middle School project or tradition?

I would have to say my favorite middle school project is the Capstone Project because it is a student-led project that the learner has an individual interest in, and truly reflects what they are most passionate about, whether it pertains to in-school or outside of school.

Have you ever met someone famous?

In my life I have met many famous people along the way, but the one that had the most impact on me was when I met Donnie Wahlberg from the music group New Kids on the Block and also from the television show Blue Bloods. The reason he sticks out in my mind the most is because on this particular day, my friends and I had to wait in line in the pouring rain outside of their family’s restaurant chain Wahlburgers. What some would think would be a terrible experience having to wait in the pouring rain turned out to be how wonderful a person and an experience can be. What struck me the most as I stood in line was that he asked each fan how they were doing and made a connection and conversation with every one of them as they stepped up for a picture, even though there were hundreds and hundreds of fans waiting inside and outside the restaurant. He could have simply just taken a picture with each fan and sent them on their way, but instead chose to make conversation with each one. Certainly, with other celebrities, it is maybe a hello and get the picture and move on at least in my experience. In addition, that particular day they had more fans than expected at the event and he made sure to get a picture with everyone present, staying well past the scheduled event time. I saw what a wonderful human being he was and how he cherished each fan that was present that day and appreciated each fan.

Do you have a favorite bible verse or favorite quote?

My favorite Bible verse would be Matthew 6 1:34. This Bible verse truly helps me to remember to continue to do good deeds out of devotion to God and not for the praise of others. Also, to focus on God, be humble, trust in the Lord, not to worry, and seek the kingdom of God.