My work in early childhood education began in 2010 with an internship at the Presbyterian Community Center, supporting at-risk middle school children in a local afterschool program. From there, I gained hands-on experience as a personal care aide for a young child with sensory and developmental challenges, learning how to adapt environments and activities to meet unique needs.

Later, through an internship with ReadyKids in Charlottesville, VA, I partnered with families to support healthy development, school readiness, and strong parent-child relationships. As a lead toddler teacher at Bright Beginnings Preschool, I discovered my love for creating spaces that nurture independence, curiosity, and confidence.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with minors in Communication and Childhood Studies from Christopher Newport University (2012-2015), and a Master’s in Education in Educational Psychology and Applied Developmental Science from the University of Virginia (2015-2016).

When I moved back to Roanoke in 2017, I struggled to find a job because I was overqualified for some jobs and underqualified for others in the school system. I did not have an interest in public education so I did not pursue a teaching license. I knew I wanted to work in education, but I hadn’t found my niche yet. After being hired at a local Montessori school I knew I had found my place! Within months I was enrolled in a training program to become Montessori Primary Certified through the Center for Guided Montessori Studies (CGMS).

For the past eight years, I’ve had the joy of guiding children in my Montessori community and witnessing firsthand how Montessori principles nurture each child’s natural development, independence, and self-esteem—both in the classroom and at home.