My passion for Spanish began in eighth grade while building houses for families in Tijuana, México. The experience was eye-opening and deeply impactful. I wanted desperately to connect with the families we met but lacked the language skills to do so. From that moment on, learning Spanish became my focus and commitment. As a freshman in college, I traveled with the same organization as an interpreter, and as a junior I decided to push my love for language and lived abroad in Cuernavaca, México. That experience was so transformative that I shifted my academic path, pursuing undergraduate degrees in Spanish and education.

After years of traveling and studying Spanish, I returned home to the Wood River Valley in 2007 to share my passion for Spanish as a second language. After four years of teaching, I pursued my master’s degree, living and studying in San José, Costa Rica and completing my program in Guanajuato, México. I love what I teach and I am now in my 19th year teaching at this school, where I strive to bring language and culture to life through real-world application and immersive experiences, including leading student trips to Spain and Costa Rica. My students over the years have molded my teaching and are the reason I show up every day. Spanish is my superpower and my goal is to help students see language not just as a subject, but as a powerful tool for connection, understanding, and opportunity.

In addition to Spanish, I find joy and balance in spending time with my family. Having grown up in the Wood River Valley, I deeply appreciate the incredible opportunities this community offers. I recognize and appreciate that my spouse is my much better half. He and my kiddo are the best parts of my day and they inspire me to show up and be my best self. Together, we love to travel, play ice hockey, and feel a strong connection to the natural environment we are fortunate to share.