Greetings Bobcats!

I teach 6th Grade English/ English Honors at Otto Middle School. I am also the New Teacher Lead Mentor and the ELAR 6 PLC Lead. I have been teaching for seventeen years and this is my ninth year in Plano ISD. I began my educational career on the sunny island of Singapore where I taught English and History to middle and high school students for several years. I’m married with a teenage daughter. We are proud to call Plano, Texas home.

Why I Teach:

“Teaching is my calling; it is my purpose in education to nurture my students’  potential, foster inquiry, develop resilient learners, and independent, critical thinkers who will embrace the joy and challenges of the learning journey.” - Zarinah Hayes

I am an ardent supporter of literacy and enjoy building a genuine love of reading, writing, and learning among my students. Whenever the opportunity arises, you will find me having enthusiastic conversations with my students about all things books. This passion for reading and discovering new worlds is something I have worked tirelessly to cultivate in my students, for an engaged reader is a reader who thinks, and a reader who thinks is one who can and will apply knowledge in every facet of their lives.

As a teacher, I am passionate about building positive relationships with my students so that they trust me and understand that I always have their best interests at heart. I believe students should take ownership over their learning so that they will truly do their best in attaining their academic potential.

My classroom is founded on respect, mutual trust, and maximum student engagement, and is a community of close-knit learners working hand in hand with me as we strive to greater heights in the pursuit of academic excellence.

When not in the classroom, you will find me indulging in my favorite hobbies: reading and container gardening. I also enjoy spending time with family, friends, and traveling.