A Little About Me

Hello, you!

I write.

Ozarks {December 2013}

Mixed media art I created inspired by LEAP.

STORY matters. Our stories are told in a myriad of ways. I've claimed MISSION STORY as my way to make a difference in the world. I hope I inspire you to tell your story and empower others to do the same.

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Currently I'm an instructional writing coach for Wawasee Community School Corporation,  a school district in northern Indiana. I support kindergarten to middle school teachers in all content areas. The majority of my time is spent alongside k-8 teachers encouraging and supporting them as they teach writers using writing workshop.

I am also the upcoming Director of the All-Write Consortium, a professional development organization serving the needs of Indiana and Michigan educators.

I've taught middle and high school writers and readers. When I'm with kindergarten writers, I think I missed my calling.

I have a bachelor's degree in secondary education, with a major in biology and chemistry, and a minor in English. My master's degree is in school administration.

I write books and articles to encourage and inspire teachers in their work with writers. Sometimes I forget this is real and not just a pipe dream.

My husband, Andy, and I have four kids, ages  11, 12, 13 and 15. We stay busy with sports, books, and cooking in the kitchen.

I gave up New Year's Resolutions in 2006 and instead chose a word to live for the year. Here is my collection of One Little Words:

2017 {STEADFAST}
2016 {TREASURE}
​2015 {UNHURRIED}
2014 {LEAP}
2013 {SHINE}
2012 [ SALT]
2011 [CONNECT}
2010 {VITALITY}
2009 {DELIGHT}
2008 {GENUINE}
2007 {GIVE}
2006 {GRACE}