Candidate for the office of K-12 Division, Vice President MCPS Paraeducator Chapter

Over the past 11+ years, I have been a Paraeducator at Cloverly Elementary. My journey in MCPS began as a 1:1 Special Education Paraeducator, where I gained valuable experience in individualized support and was recognized with the MCCPTA Support Staff Paraeducator Award. I later trained as a Home School Model Paraeducator and then as a Math Focus Paraeducator specializing in the Eureka Math curriculum. Today I provide support in class and targeted intervention groups. I am part of a MCPS Math Cohort, where I continue to grow in my position as a Math Paraeducator, and because of this, I have recently led math training sessions for Paraeducators across MCPS, reinforcing our crucial role in both academics and student relationships.

Before joining MCPS, I spent over 14 years at Discovery Communications as an Editor, Producer, and Manager in Program Editing/Network Operations, earning two Telly Awards and a Cable Ace Nomination. While I cherished my time at Discovery, my passion, drive, and determination led me toward new paths in education + advocacy. I have been a Manager and Teacher at a local dance studio, served as an Assistant Director for a Teen Service Project Summer Camp, and was a founding member of the Better Burtonsville Association. Currently I am a Board Member for the Good Hope Estates Civic Association advocating for neighborhood needs, projects, and events.

My advocacy work will continue in my work for Paraeducators. We mentor, guide, and build relationships which support students' academic and emotional growth. Our work deserves fair compensations, further opportunities for professional development, and improved working conditions. Through collaboration and connection, we can elevate our profession and make a lasting impact on our student’s futures. I humbly ask for your support as we strive for positive change.