George Washington Teacher Institute

One of the coolest parts about being a teacher is seizing professional development opportunities.  Conference, edcamp, lecture, institute, what have you:  these PD opportunities are crucial for our students.

I have learned so much about the way that I teach by fully immersing myself in as many opportunities as possible.  I have so much fun when I learn new ways to approach various subjects and also get a chance to meet like-minded educators across the country.


My heart hasn't stopped racing since the early morning, when I received word that I was accepted into the George Washington Teacher Institute.  This July, I will spend a full week living at Mount Vernon as I explore the legacy of Mr. President himself.


I believe that this opportunity will change the way that I approach my entire social studies instruction.  I'm so excited to promote the Woods and also expand my own professional learning network.


I can't wait to bring this back to the kids.

Teacher in Residence: National Aquarium

Summer, to me, is the ultimate time for active learning and discovery.  Vacations of all sorts are great, particularly for the mental re-charge.  Still, to me, something about summer screams think, do, learn to me.

I am incredibly excited and honored to announce that I will be National Aquarium's Teacher in Residence this summer.  I will work alongside non-formal educators at the aquarium to develop new ways in which to use their exhibits as teaching tools.

I'm primarily excited about this opportunity because I know that I will return to school in the fall armed with a plethora of new ideas and activities for my students.  Our very first intensive science unit is centered upon oceans.  This residency is a match made in heaven for me - and for my students!