Started at Notre Dame:
September 2023
Education:
I have a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois in Chicago with a concentration in schools.
Additional certifications:
Prior to having children, I had the pleasure of working in various settings within the social service field, including working as a Behavioral Specialist for the Department of Education in Hawaii and as a contracted psycho-educational instructor for the United States Army, Department of Defense. After having my first daughter in 2006, I became a stay-at-home mom where I continued to dedicate my time for 13 years, and was blessed with three additional kiddos. When my youngest entered kindergarten, I went back to work as a part-time school social worker. I have worked in the public school setting for the last five years and am currently working toward earning my LCSW. I am looking forward to working with the students and families at Notre Dame and incorporating the Catholic faith into their social emotional development.
Family highlights:
I have been married for 18 years to my high school sweetheart and best friend, Mike. We have been blessed with four children, three girls and a boy, who are now 17, 15, 13, and 10. We have been a part of Notre Dame school since 2010 and are forever grateful for the lifelong friends we have met within this community.
The impact of faith:
I am deeply passionate about incorporating God's message into the social-emotional learning for students. In today's world, our students are faced with many stressors that impact their mental health and well-being. I am hopeful that by strengthening our connection to God through our faith, we will be able to approach life's challenges with strong hearts and minds.
Free times and pastimes:
I love to spend my free time with family, friends, reading, learning new hobbies, and walking our 3-year-old lab, Ranger.
Favorite quote/philosophy:
My philosophy as a school social worker centers around the holistic well being and spiritual development of students within the school environment. I like to use a faith-based and child-centered approach to learning as a way to address the unique needs of the students within the classroom setting. Ultimately, my approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and the belief that all students have the ability to be successful when provided with the right support and resources.