Mentor Biography

I began teaching in a very small town in Oklahoma in 1975. My first class assignment was two years teaching 6th grade in Picher, OK. During that time special education services began to be offered in all school districts. Due to the need for qualified teachers, I started degree work to serve Learning Disabled students through a Master's program at Pittsburg State University. I followed with an Education Specialist degree in Special Education Teaching and certification to serve Visually Impaired students, and that all began a wonderful career in Special Education for the next 30 years.

In 1992 I moved to Anchorage with my family. I taught Intensive Needs students at the secondary level for several years at Dimond High School. The last few years of my career were spent serving as a Secondary Teacher Consultant specializing in Life Skills teaching and curriculum. In 2007, I retired in order to be a joyful grandmother.

My years in education have been filled with more amazing experiences than I could ever list. I believe in respect and quality education for all students...and teachers. This opportunity to meet and mentor new teachers is very exciting. I look forward to learning more about the resources and strategies of this Alaska project. With these tools it is my hope to share some of what I have gained over the years from many kind mentors.