Joined Team CCS - October 2019
Experience
I was a school counselor for 19 years before venturing into this administrative role. I joined Catawba County Schools in 2014. Prior to joining St. Stephens Elementary, I worked for Lincoln County Schools. My work as a counselor allowed me the opportunity to collaborate with a variety of stakeholders and to offer a broad range of services to staff, students and families. I am confident that my work in advocacy, problem solving and consultation will have a positive impact on my role in administration.
Education and Accomplishments
2001 Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education
2003 Masters Degree in School Counseling
2007 Certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
2008 Awarded Lincoln County School’s School Counselor of the Year
2010 Add-on Master’s Degree Licensure for School Administration
2014 Awarded Lincoln County’s School Counselor of the Year
2018 Awarded Catawba County School Counselor of the Year
2019 North Carolina School Counselor of the Year
2020 North Carolina’s Representative for ASCA’s National School Counselor of the Year
2020 Finalist for North Carolina’s Instructional Support Educator of the Year
Why I Became an Educator
I am a fourth generation educator, with my mother, grandmother and great-grandmother all serving in public education. My father also retired from public education as a school counselor. I knew at a very young age that I wanted to follow that same path. Since I was old enough to have a job, I have found myself serving young people (camp leader, tutor, substitute, etc). I treasure my role as an educator and am filled with joy everyday that I work with children!
Favorite Place in Catawba County
I grew up on a dairy farm on the edge of Randolph County, and I have found that Catawba County reminds me a lot of my childhood home! I love its friendly people, beautiful landscapes and its variety of “fun” for all. My favorite place would have to be boating on the water or camping on the banks of either Lake Hickory or Lake Lookout. I also highly recommend that everyone check out the sunrise from the bridge at Oxford Dam (at River Bend Park). It’s absolutely breathtaking!
Favorite Activities
When I am not “doing school”, you can find me working in my flowers, playing with my dogs, camping with my family or just enjoying the great outdoors!
