Provide a quote that inspires your work. “Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.”  Malcolm X

Before I joined the Claremont Unified School district, ….I served as a principal and vice principal at Seymour Dual Language Academy with the Syracuse City School District in New York.  I began my educational career as a high school Spanish teacher in the Hamilton Central School District then later taught as a sixth grade elementary teacher. Working in one of the top 100 school districts in New York State motivated me to work in an urban setting in Syracuse to support quality education for all students regardless of their zip code.

What is your favorite part about being a principal? Watching big smiles on students' and parents' faces as they enter the school excites me and reminds me daily that the community needs me and I need them equally.

My favorite children’s book is...Swimmy by Leo Lionni. My 8 year old daughter and I love reading this story, as there is a wonderful message of how uniqueness and difference can make a community stronger.

When I was growing up, I wanted to be...all sorts of things, including a chiropractor and social worker. 

Where did you graduate? I hold a Bachelor’s degree from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania in Elementary Education with a concentration in Urban Education and a Master of Science degree from Utica College in Educational Leadership and Administration with a New York State School Building Leadership and District Certification.

A leader that I admire is...Michelle Obama, who is an example of strength, leadership, and elegance for young people across the world. Her energetic spirit and ability to motivate young women inspires me to do the same.

If I could have a cup of coffee with any of my former teachers or mentors, it would be... Ms. Kozlowski. She was my 7th grade Science teacher who took the time to get to know me as an individual and motivated me to do well in her class because she believed in my potential regardless of my dislike for 7th grade Science. Ms. Kozlowski is now my Facebook friend!

What are your goals as a CUSD employee? My goal is to empower all students to have a clear vision of their future and create a pathway for successful opportunities.

The one thing that I am most looking forward to this year is  working closely with the Mountain View community and building positive relationships with all of you.

What is your favorite movie? Ever After: A Cinderella Story. Quiet frankly, I love all Cinderella versions.