"I am a retired teacher who spent 34 years in education. I have taught high school biology, ecology, field biology, and life science, along with teaching both high school and middle school English/language arts. Much of my educational experience was in the field of Gifted Education, where I worked with students in grades K-12. Unlike most educators who spend their entire career in one school system, and often one classroom/grade level, I have taught at a wide variety of schools, including rural, suburban, and urban. Differentiated instruction for students has always been my goal. By using a wide variety of teaching methods and tools, and getting to know students personally, I have been successful with a wide range of students, and am proud to say that many of my students still keep in touch with me.

Not only have I had a wide range of teaching experiences, but I have also been a Coordinator of Gifted Programs and a Supervisor for Gifted Programs. I have helped to run summer camps, including Camp Invention, and also coached a wide range of academic activities including: Biology Olympics; EcoMeet; Academic Challenge; Mock Trial; Model United Nations; Odyssey of the Mind; Geography Bee; Future Problem Solving Program; and biology/ecology club. As the Biology/Ecology Club adviser at two different high schools, I have taken students on weekend, winter, and spring break overnight trips to Ohio State Parks. In the Ohio Future Problem Solving Program (OFPSP) I have coached teams, individuals, and scenario writers, with many qualifying for the State Bowl, and one team and one individual qualifying for the International Conference. In addition, I have been a packet and scenario evaluator, coordinator for scenario evaluation, and board member for the OFPSP.

I am an avid reader in a wide range of topics, love to travel, and attend live theater. These all make me a well-rounded person who can identify with a wide range of people, backgrounds, and learning styles. I have always had high standards and expectations" less...