I am a fourth grade math teacher at Centennial Elementary. I earned my degree from Austin Peay State University in 2007. Then I obtained my Masters and EDS degrees from Arkansas State University in the following years. This is my twelfth year teaching math, which is the subject I requested. After teaching fourth grade math for nine years, I moved up to fifth for one year and really enjoyed seeing the extension of learning in fifth grade (this is why there are a few videos devoted to fifth grade math on the lessons page). I returned to fourth grade the following year and feel like my experience in fifth grade has made me a better fourth grade teacher.
I had a very hard time with math in school, and it took several years to make me comfortable performing mathematical operations. Memories of my struggles drive my instructional process. It is very easy for children to become intimidated by math. Therefore, I strive to make it as accessible as possible. Numbers are everywhere; so if a person is scared of math, it can seriously hinder later success in life. Instead, every student should come in confident and ready to "work the numbers" (not let the numbers work them). I hate it when students tell me, "Math is my worst subject." The truth is, no subject should be their worst. There are only subjects in which we have to work a little harder. Success is possible, and I will work hard to make sure students can conquer fourth grade math in a fun, effective classroom setting. My class motto is "Effort is Everything!"
I was born and raised in Dickson County and absolutely love it here. We are a small town, but our students can perform as well as any other in the country. I believe in their future and hope to make whatever small contribution I can to their success. The main goal for this website is to make learning as easy as possible. Some students are not comfortable asking for help in class for fear their peers will judge them. Others simply need more time with a skill outside of class to truly master it. This site should eliminate these concerns. If a student can review the lesson online in the comfort of home, I feel that the material will not seem as scary. Also, parents can brush up on the fourth and fifth grade math skills and help their children work through practice problems at home. I can't come home with each student to help with math homework, so I figured this site was the next best thing.
I am very excited about the career that lays before me. I love seeing the look on a child's face when he or she finally gets it. That "light bulb" moment always makes me smile. It is more rewarding than I can possibly describe. Teaching is a calling I was glad to receive, and I am thankful for the blessings that come with working with children. I hope this site helps in some way, and I thank-you for stopping by.