I began my teaching experience where I myself was a student. I taught 6th, 7th and 8th grade Social Studies for three years at Lacordaire Academy. I had a 6th grade homeroom. 

During my time there I coached girls' basketball and worked with the other junior high teachers on a cross curriculum program. 

Then I taught 5th grade for 5 years in Paterson. At the time it was self-contained. I asked my principal if we could change classes so students would be exposed to other teaching styles and teachers would have more time to prep. I helped implement a math program that enabled parents to help their children learn math at home with hands on experiences. I was the assistant coach for the 7th and 8th grade boys' basketball team. 

For ten years I worked P/T at Aquinas Academy as a substitute teacher and an enrichment teacher. There I began a chess program for students in grades 4-8 that was done as an after school activity. 
This is my 18th year at Saint Thomas the Apostle. My first year I was a sub for 3 months for the 1st grade teacher and then was a sub for the rest of the year. For 7 years I taught kindergarten in what is now the pre-K 3 room. This is my 10th year teaching 1st grade. We enjoy hands on math activities, weekly science experiments, Guess and Tell, Words of the Day and much more. Most importantly we begin and end our day with prayer. Throughout the day we talk about Jesus who was/is the best teacher of all. 

During the summer I work at Camp Discovery at FDU in Hackensack. There I am the Explorer Teacher. 

Saint Thomas has been my parish since my parents moved to Bloomfield when I was a year old. My husband and 3 sons are also part of the parish. Two of my sons came here from pre-k to 8th grade. 
I have done community theatre for many years. I was in a few productions at STA.  I am honored to be a lector at church. I have done this since before my youngest son was born. 

I am proud to run the Chess Club which is an after school activity for students in grades1-8. Older students assist the younger students and help them master the fundamentals of the game. With the assistance of the STA community I help with the Sports Association Annual Basketball game for Bloomfield Special Olympics. 

I am blessed to do what I do each day. The faith of a child is priceless. 
  

•  1st Grade Religion Curriculum.docx