I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree from Maryville College (Maryville, Tennessee) in Child Development and Learning. I earned my Master of Science degree from the University of Tennessee (Knoxville, Tennessee) in Curriculum and Instruction. I earned my Educational Leadership degree (administration) from the University of Alabama (Birmingham).

I started teaching in 1993 in Alcoa, Tennessee. I taught 5th grade in an open pod classroom. I was one of the first 21st century classrooms in Tennessee, which entitled me to 5 classroom computers; that was a big deal back then. Our school had its own television station and my 5th-grade classroom put on a weekly news show that was both educational and entertaining. Since starting my teaching career, I have established pre-k programs, taught several different grade levels, and worked in many different roles within the educational environment. I have taught school in Tennessee and Alabama. I am starting my 7th year in Madison City. I enjoy helping students grow to their full potential.

I am an assistant cross-country coach at James Clemens High School (4th year) and was an assistant coach for their indoor and outdoor track. My husband and I have been married for 27 years and have four children (1 son and 3 daughters). All four of our children have graduated from James Clemens High School. Our son graduated from Spring Hill College and is officially adulting. He is getting married this year. Our oldest daughter graduated from Birmingham Southern College and is in her second year of medical school. Our third child is a senior at Trevecca University in Nashville. Our youngest will start at the University of Alabama this fall. We have an Italian Greyhound dog named Tucky. I have 3 axolotls thanks to my students who introduced me and helped me fall in love with these unique little critters. We enjoy traveling as a family.