What is your role at St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic School?
Kindergarten Teacher
What year did you start working at St. Stephen?
2022
Tell us about your education background & about your teaching/work experience.
I began my career journey by earning my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from UNL. This will be my 13th year of teaching. I taught for 1 year with Lincoln Public Schools as a Math and Reading Interventionist, 8 years in Lincoln at St. Patrick’s as a first-grade teacher, and 2 years in Omaha at Holy Cross where I taught kindergarten.
What do you love about your job?
I love teaching kindergarten because I have the opportunity to make a difference in students’ lives very early on. They are discovering so many different things about themselves, and what they can do, learn, and achieve. I love watching them grow and being the person they can feel safe with, look up to, love, and learn from.
Who is your favorite Saint or what is your favorite scripture?
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (She is the founder of the first Catholic school in the United States, and was a convert…So am I!)
Tell us about your family (spouse, children, grandchildren, pets, etc.):
I met my husband Ryan in college and converted to the Catholic faith before being married in 2011. We have a combined total of 23 nieces and nephews from both sides of our family, and spoiling them is our favorite. We love dogs and have a bulldog named Phoebe Jean!
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A professional golfer! I began golfing at a young age with my dad, and enjoy playing to this day with my husband Ryan, my family, and friends as often as I can.
What is your favorite sweet treat?
I honestly love salty snacks (chips & guacamole) equally as sweets. However, if I had to choose…Rolos. =)
Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?
I LOVE to organize, and Jazzercise is my favorite!
What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?
All year round I enjoy spending time with my family, but to narrow it down…In the summer you can find me golfing, swimming, and going to garage sales. In the fall I’m still golfing but on Husker Football Saturday, you’ll find my husband and I hosting our Czechs for Nebraska tailgate. During the winter months (my favorite season) you can find me curled up next to the fireplace under a cozy blanket watching movies and football. In the springtime, I look forward to the Huskers’ spring football game and going back to my husband’s hometown for his annual alumni basketball tournament. It’s always fun to spend time with current friends and reconnect with old ones.
What piece of advice would you give parents to help their child(ren) succeed at St. Stephen?
Always believe in yourself as a parent, and lead with faith, love, kindness and understanding.
