"I am highly skilled and experienced at inspiring young people to learn and grow while working with them one-on-one, in small groups, and in large groups. I am a professional educator, nicknamed "Mr. Funky Teacher," in the education world. I am deeply passionate about helping young people thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. My teaching philosophy aligns with the Japanese proverb, “Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher.”

I guide students to success through resilience, relationship, and reflection. I have taught for 20 years in Nebraska as a professional educator in at the elementary level. For over a decade, I have been an adjunct college instructor working with college students majoring in K-8th grade education.

I am a certified licensed teacher with a Master of Arts Professional Educator Degree through Morningside College focusing on elementary education, special education, and technology teaching strategies. I have an undergraduate teaching degree in elementary education. I also have multiple endorsements including an elementary reading teacher endorsement, middle school teaching endorsement, and K-12th grade ESL teaching endorsement.

My skills have been recognized through special honors including through various national education fellowships, a Nebraska History Teacher Of The Year Award, a Nebraska Teacher Of The Year Finalist Award, a Golden Apple Teacher Of The Year for my community, and multiple other regional awards.

I am also an outdoor adventurer, traveler, husband, and father. I believe in compassion and empathy. I am committed to learning about and promoting mental, physical, and social-emotional health. My life has been filled with joy and also some deep pain and loss. I believe in changing the world for the better as a parent, teacher, friend, and student of life while just trying to be a decent human being. I see life as an adventurous journey meant to be experienced." less...