I've been a classroom teacher for the past five years. I currently teach 8th grade English in Massachusetts, and I previously taught 6, 7, and 8th grade English in the Bronx, New York. I am an avid reader and writer, with a BA in Literature and Creative Writing from Bard College. As an educator, I strive to provide each student with the concrete strategies that allow readers to make meaning of text, and to clearly express ideas through writing. I make my process as a reader and writer transparent, and I've seen my students try out those steps, and make progress. With progress comes enthusiasm, and eagerness to make those steps their own -- that is when they soar! While I've worked most extensively with middle school students, I have worked with elementary school students in after-school English Language Arts programs, and taught 9th and 10th grade English during my graduate training. I've enjoyed working with students at each of these levels; it has enhanced my practice, encouraging me to identify the embedded skills within a task, and adapt my pedagogy to meet the needs of each individual. When I'm not working with students, you'll find me curled up with a good book, exploring one of Boston's many museums, or setting out for a vigorous hike.

reading, writing, hiking, yoga, visiting museums