Fourth grade is a year of challenges, changes, and celebrations. The students become much more organized and self sufficient with their learning. The focus changes from learning to read, to reading to learn. Fourth grade is full of fun and exciting curriculum. Students will learn about the states and capitals of the U.S., the regions of the U.S., Man in Space, the skeletal and muscular systems of the human body, Colorado history, and rocks and minerals. Our math program is Everyday Math. If you would like to see more specific information on the curriculum, please follow the links to the district site for 4th grade curriculum. We look forward to joining you in partnership as we achieve our goals in 4th grade.

I started teaching in 1987 in inner city Los Angeles in a "Mini United Nations" multicultural school. I started at Highland in 1990. I have taught K-6. People ask me all the time what grade is my favorite grade to teach. I can honestly answer that whatever grade I am teaching is my favorite. I love teaching, I love watching light bulbs go off in a child's head, and I love watching children reach for their highest potential. I have a Master's Degree in the Diverse Learner.

I graduated from Denver University in 1976 with a B.A. in Psychology and Education. I began my teaching career at SEMBCS, a school for children with multiple disabilities. Following this I taught 6th grade at St. Mary's. From there I moved on to teach 7th and 8th grade at Sinclair Middle School in Englewood. 1986 was my first year at Highland and it has been my "home" ever since. I love teaching and the many challenges and rewards that come with it.

In April of 1995 I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Pyschology from Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. In addition to a BA, I also completed the Elementary Teacher License program at Fort Lewis College. I earned a Masters of Arts in Education with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix Colorado Branch in July of 2002. My work experience includes teaching 2nd, 4th, and 5th grade at Highland since August of 1997. Prior to that time, I was a substitute teacher for two years primarily working in Littleton Public Schools.

On a more personal note, I have two children, Tyler and Katelyn. In my spare time I love to ski, read, scrapbook, and volunteer in my kids’ extracurricular activities as a coach and scout leader. 

I check my voice-mail once a day, after school, and will get back to you as soon as possible. I check my e-mail more often throughout the day, usually at lunch and after school.