Bonjour!  I'm very excited to be starting my 13th year teaching kindergarten at L'Etoile du Nord French Immersion School.  I'm proud to say that I have been our school's original kindergarten teacher since its inception in 1996.  Over the years, I've experienced two building moves, many staff additions, and a wonderful increase in student enrollment.  It's been a tremendously exciting journey watching our school grow and flourish and to finally have a permanent home on 1363 Bush Avenue. 
          My interest in French began in high school and continued at the University of Minnesota, where I pursued a double major in Elementary Education and French.  I studied abroad for one year at Univeriste de Paul Valery in Montpellier, France refining French skills and learning about French culture.  That experience, along with my studies in elementary education, instilled in me a firm belief that languages were best taught to young students.  It also inspired me to search out opportunities to teach French at the elementary level.  The start up of the French Immersion Program in St. Paul has allowed me to realize my dream and allow my passion for languages and children to grow.
          It has been my privilege to have served on many committees that have supported the growth of our school.  Most notably, I have served as the Intern Coordinator for 9 years, which has provided me a wonderful opportunity to work very closely with our native French speaking interns and our gracious host families. In addition to this, I have served as a teacher representative on the Site Council for six years (1998-2004).  This committee allowed me to collaborate with the principal, staff members, and parent representatives to formulate and help regulate school wide goals and  policies.   This year marks my fifth year working on the fundraising committee, which helps us raise important funds to support our Intern Program.
          I am excited to create new partnerships with many new families and some familiar families of siblings I've had.  Parents and teachers working together is the best combination for student success!  Please feel free to contact me when you need.