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The Beginning
March 19, 1990 was the day I entered this incredible world! I was the fourth born of five siblings. -
First Years of School
When I was little, our family was settled just outside of the beautiful town of Athabasca, Alberta. My family built a home there and me and my siblings attended Whispering Hills Primary School. The years I spent at WHPS commenced my love of school, the school bus, and colorful alphabet rugs. -
Our Northern Experience
In second grade, my family packed up our suitcases and memories and moved to the busy, oilfield-driven town of Rainbow Lake, Alberta, where, in a school from kindergarten to grade 12, my four siblings and I all went to school together. -
My Middle Years
When I was in sixth grade, my parents packed us up and followed the oilfield work to Rimbey, Alberta. This is where I would spend the rest of my elementary and high school experience. This is where I challenged myself to graduate as fast as I could, so I could get out of the small town and move to the city. -
Graduation
After completing high school, I moved to Red Deer and returned in the fall of 2008 to walk across the stage at graduation. Goodbye high school and hello world! -
Post-Secondary Schooling
I received my certification as an esthetician through the Academy of Professional Hair Design. My training landed me a position at Solace Spa and Salon, where I would offer esthetic services to others. I would treat clients to rest and relaxation and teach them how to properly care for themselves. I became fluent in self-care. I provided pedicures until my baby bump got so large it was challenging to sit on a little stool to massage feet. -
My Hero is Born
August 19, 2012 was my most magical and memorable life event: The birth of my son Hudson. I remember feeling excited to meet this new human in my life, and when I first held him I realized my world was changed forever. Becoming a parent has prepared me the most for what to expect as a future educator. -
Career Changes
After Hudson was born, I took a job as an administrative assistant for a heavy duty equipment dealership. I met amazing people and built lasting relationships with coworkers. I came across some challenges in my relationship at home and had to make a tough life choice. I reflected on my career settlement, and applied for the education program feeling like I had nothing to lose. -
A Single Mom with Focus
At this point in my life I was a single mom with a dream, motivation, and an acceptance letter. My focus was on school and acquiring that teaching degree, so I could better support my son. Funny how in year one I met the love of my life and became a part-time parent to the two boys in his life as well. Now I tell people: One grew in my belly and two grew in my heart. -
Second Year
Networking became a goal for me in 2016. I joined the Education Undergraduate Society and met even more incredible people. I was striving for excellence in year two, my family beside me for support, and managed to keep my GPA at a level where I was accepted into the collaborative program between Red Deer College and the University of Alberta. -
Annual Indigenous Perspectives Conference
I have contributed to this event for three years.
2017 I welcomed presenters with protocol
2018 A colleague and I coordinated the conference with an incredible team of individuals as a Service Learning Project
2019 I continue to sit on the planning committee for the conference Find out more here: Red Deer Advocate -
Year Three
As much as I do not want to talk about year three, I will. The challenges of balancing family life and a full course load, while volunteering as secretary for the Education Undergraduate Society were heavy. The important part: I made it through and learned valuable life skills along the way. I learned to prioritize, manage my time, and conquer the mountains one step at a time. I completed my practicum at West Park Middle School. I taught Science 6 & 7, Leadership, Phys Ed, and Rec Ed. -
The End of the Beginning
- I made it. This is the year I graduate. Extended practicum at my dream school: Aspen Heights Elementary. I will teach twenty-eight grade five students. There are so many challenges to come this year, but after the roller coaster of a journey I had up to this point, nothing can stand in my way.
