Professional Career:
- Currently Educational Consultant at the Southwest Center for Educational Excellence.
- Retired after 32 years in public education. Retired from Wheaton R-III in 2024.
- Teacher, coach, principal, director, asst. superintendent, assoc. superintendent, superintendent.
- Worked in districts ranging in size of 460 – 4650 students over 32 years.
- Worked in 6 MO public schools and 2 KY public schools.
- Taught university courses in MO (Administration/Leadership)and KY (physical Education).
Personal, Hobbies, Spare Time, Unique Facts:
- Aunt, friend, teacher, coach, learner, leader, mentor, believer. Faith, Family, Friendships.
- I grew up on a farm in southwest Missouri and it taught me the value of hard work.
- I love the beach, lake, being in the sun, my dogs, my jeep, kayaking, and reading.
- I love basketball: I played, I coached basketball for many years, including NCAA Division I basketball, and I love watching it.
- Leading, mentoring, and collaborating are my passions and continuing these in retirement is a dream come true.
What I Love About School / The Profession of Education:
- I love the students. I love seeing how they grow and become successful adults.
- I love learning, I love trying new things and growing as a professional.
- I love the people, I love the connections and helping others grow into their best selves.
- I love making a difference. This is where we change the world, one student, one person at a time.
Favorite Quote About Leadership:
“A boss has a title, a leader has the people.” — Simon Sinek
“A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.
Favorite or Most Impactful Teacher Growing Up:
Jerry Davis, my high school physical education teacher and basketball coach. He taught me that working hard and being a team player brings success. He coached us HARD but always believed in us more than we believed in ourselves. He is the reason I became a teacher and coach.