I was raised in West Allis. Brad and I bought our first house there and both kids were born in “Stallis”. We built our house and moved to Big Bend in 2010. This is my 12th year teaching in the district. I have also advised the student council and SAVE Promise Clubs in the Elementary schools and coach tennis at Park View. We belong to St. Joe’s in Big Bend and I am a confirmation catechist. I am hoping to pass on my love of God to any young adults that are interested.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My husband Brad and I will be married for 20 years this October. Our son Eddie is 18 and is starting his first year at UW-Whitewater. Our daughter Makena is 16 and is a junior at MHS.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I began my teaching career in MPS. Once I had Eddie I stayed home with my kids for 7 years and then returned to teaching in the Mukwonago Area School DIstrict when we moved to the area. I have been an Advanced Learning Program Teacher for the last 11 years. I have taught at Big Bend, Clarendon, Section and Eagleville. This has allowed me to grow relationships with so many fantastic students and families. Just this year I changed roles and took on a new adventure as a math teacher at Park View Middle school. Changing roles and schools has reminded me what I love most about teaching. The relationships I grow with students. The first day of school there were so many familiar faces from my time in the elementary schools. I love seeing them grow into adults.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
We love Friday fish fries at The Blue Heron. On Sundays after church we love to grab breakfast at Chubby’s. Crossroads’ pizza is amazing and was a perfect first job for Makena. We also frequent DAAs and Fork in the Road. So many great choices.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
12 years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
My students. I have met so many amazing kids throughout the years. I know we are in good hands when they start taking care of our community.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Maui, Hawaii. That is where Brad and I were married and it would be great to celebrate our 20th anniversary there.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
The Avengers. Seinfeld.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
This quote from Saint Teresa is my favorite. “Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.” So just smile:)
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
To tour the Holy Land
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Van Halen
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Country View Campground. My grandparents used to stay there with their trailer in the summers.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Tom Selleck. I’d take him to David Alan Alan’s for a Smoked Old Fashioned.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Elegant Farmer. I love picking apples. Eddie always requests an Elegant Farmer apple pie for his birthday.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In the same house, still teaching but getting ready to retire.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Many days I get up an extra hour early so I can soak in the hot tub with a cup of coffee.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
I love Jacksonport and Tomahawk. We spend a lot of our time in both places during the summer. Being on the water and looking over the water is beautiful and relaxing.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
Month – October with the change of seasons, my birthday and my anniversary. Holiday – Thanksgiving, family, food and gratefulness. Single Day -my kids birthdays(yes I picked 2)
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A night playing sheepshead with family and friends.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Definitely my children and my students
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Fresh cut grass and gasoline
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Comfort, Love, Family
