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education
I grew up in Traverse City. I attended Eastern Michigan University for my undergrad and Grand Valley State University for my Masters. Why Teach?
I chose education because working with kids is an amazing experience, helping them learn and grow. They make me laugh every day, and they inspire me to continue to see the world through their eyes. Seeing a child’s eyes light up when they learn something new, have an idea, or grasp a new concept, is incredibly rewarding to me. What excites you about omps?
I'm very excited to be a part of a brand new school. The energy and passion going into this upcoming school year is truly awesome and I can't wait to jump right in. I have always loved the community and environment in which OMPS sits, and I know both will be utilized throughout the school year. Students will have a fresh, real world learning experience at OMPS with these benefits and curriculum offered. I am so thrilled that I get to be a part of all of it! interests/hobbies
My number one interest is travel. My family and I (husband and daughter) travel when we can, but it's not as often as I'd like! I love experiencing different cultures, the traditions, food, lifestyle, etc. It gets me out of my own world and helps me to remember the global picture. Other hobbies include: reading, being outside whether it's swimming and boating or hiking through snow and skiing. |
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education
I grew up in Sault Ste. Marie, MI before attending Michigan State University where I earned my degree in Elementary Education with a focus in Language Arts and a minor in Child Development. Why Teach?
It has always been a dream of mine to teach, and to be able to create a classroom community where all children feel welcomed, safe, and encouraged. I am excited to be able to do that this coming year for our greater school community. What excites you about omps?
I was attracted to Old Mission Peninsula School because of the strong community support system with common goals for our students; this kind of support will help our students go above and beyond. interests/hobbies
In my free time I love to be outdoors, and even more importantly on the water with my family. I could not be more excited for the school year ahead! |
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education
I have an Associate Degree in Applied Science and am currently working toward a Bachelor Degree in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Anthropology. What excites you about omps?
I am excited about everything in the new school year! Not only will I be starting in my new position, but my son, Quinlan, will be attending OMPS as a new student. interests/hobbies
I have several different hobbies, including scuba diving, fencing, both land and nautical archaeology, and I am in the process of learning to play the violin. I love challenges, trying new things, and learning in general. |
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education
Illinois State University with a degree in Fine Art and a minor in Social work. what excited you about omps?
I live on Old Mission Peninsula and have been involved in our school for thirteen years and counting. I have volunteered for every school position and event! Now I am excited that I get to spend my days working at our wonderful school. I am excited for this year, seeing familiar faces again and meeting new ones. I am looking forward to utilizing our beautiful campus for hands on outdoor learning. interests/hobbies
I love spending time outside, visiting friends and family. We spend most of our time out at our barn with our horses. |
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education
I have Associates Degree is in Early Education, Bachelors Degree is in Community Education and Engagement with two sub majors in Administration and Childcare. Why Teach?
I teach because I want to provide children with the best early childhood experiences to help shape their minds for the future What excites you about omps?
I am so excited for OMPS to have a preschool Program. The peninsula has a perfect atmosphere for students to grow and learn. interests/hobbies
When I’m not teaching, I enjoy working out and being outdoors. |
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education
I graduated with a BA from Saginaw Valley State University. I have worked with children in some capacity my entire career! I enjoyed 13 years at an elementary school in Frankenmuth, 6 of those years were spent in preschool. For many years, I had the privilege of working with children and their families who were a part of the Special Education program. I am an advocate for ALL children regardless of their abilities. For the past 4 years, I have been the Early Literacy Specialist at the Wickson District Library in Frankenmuth. I am looking forward to getting back to my favorite place- the classroom! Why Teach?
I honestly get excited when I am around children. Their energy is contagious! There is nothing better than seeing a child grow and develop right before your eyes! Getting to know each child individually and fostering a love for education is such an amazing opportunity! What excites you about omps?
I am so excited to be a part of this awesome OMPS family! When I drove up to the building, I had to pinch myself! Wow! What an incredible location! Although, nothing compares to when I walked into the school for the first time! It felt like home. No kidding! I am excited to be a part of this fabulous school. interests/hobbies
I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy boating, painting, reading, bike riding, SUP, walking, and my dog, Finley! |
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education
Why Teach?
What excites you about omps?
interests/hobbies
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education
Western Michigan University, 2008 with a Bachelors of Science in Education, majoring in elementary education. I am presently working on my Masters Degree through Grand Valley State University. Why Teach?
Since a very young age teaching has been a passion of mine. I can remember making my brother and cousins “play” school while I taught them in our living room. Once in elementary school I had amazing experiences and teachers throughout my education, especially in Kindergarten. I remember taking a field trip to my teachers lake house where we learned all about our beautiful area and community, I left thinking, “this is what I want to do when I grow up”. What excites you about omps?
I am most excited about being part of this new journey at Old Mission Peninsula School alongside our students, crew and community. It has been a dream of mine since graduating from college to work at the school where I learned to be a respectable, caring and exceptional learner. I look forward to an amazing school year and building relationships that will last a lifetime. interests/hobbies
Our family can be found on a boat, beach or hike in the summer and ice fishing, sledding and having bon fires during the winter! My husband and I have a one year old son, Jack, and a golden retriever, Wally! |
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education
I grew up in Traverse City, attending Norris Elementary. I went on to the University of Michigan where I earned a Bachelor in General Studies and Bachelor of Education. In 2004 I earned my Master in Education from Grand Valley State University with an Early Childhood endorsement. The 23-24 school year will be my 14th year teaching kindergarten and prior to that I taught second grade for 11 years. Why Teach?
I can’t think of anything more rewarding than building strong, positive relationships and creating a lifelong love of learning in our youngest learners. Creating a warm and welcoming classroom that children feel safe, loved and excited to enter each day is my number one goal. As my dad claims, I came home from kindergarten one day and announced, “I want to be a teacher! What excites you about omps?
OMPS places great value on building strong relationships, fostering social emotional learning and encourages active engaged learners (inside and outside on a beautiful campus). These are all characteristics that are important to me and I look forward to becoming part of this special school family. interests/hobbies
I have been married to my husband, Paul, for 16 years and we have a son, Alex, who turned 15 in July and a son, Austin, who turned 11 in January. We are also fortunate to have both sets of our parents living in Traverse City. We are an active family and enjoy attending our boys sporting events and visiting many beautiful outdoor locations. Paul participates in many triathlons and we recently returned from an Ironman race in mountainous Mont Tremblant, Canada. |
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education
Central Michigan University with an Early Childhood Degree in Education. Why Teach?
After redirecting my career to education, I felt very passionate about guiding and helping young children make and learn valuable lifelong choices to make them better citizens in today’s world. What excites you about omps?
I feel very fortunate and excited to be a part of the OMPS team. I strongly believe in the philosophy and vision that the school will be providing to their students along with involving the Community as much as possible. OMPS feels like a school family. interests/hobbies
I enjoy golfing and spending time in the Upper Peninsula stream fishing and exploring the beaches along Lake Superior with my husband and two Jack Russell Terriers. |
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education
I grew up in Traverse City and attended Traverse City schools. I attended Michigan State University and received my degree in Elementary Education with a teaching focus in Social Studies. Additionally, I have an endorsement from the Urban Educators Cohort Program at MSU. Why Teach?
I am very passionate about providing a safe environment for children to grow and thrive. I also believe students should experience joy while learning, and I hope to bring back some of that joy in teaching. What excites you about omps?
I am most excited about the culture at OMPS; everyone is so positive and welcoming! I am also excited to explore the outdoor learning lab with my first grade friends. interests/hobbies
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy being outside with my friends and family. I like to hike, swim, and explore new spots in Northern Michigan. I am an avid reader, and I am always eager to hear book recommendations! |
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education
Received my degree from Grand Valley State University for Elementary Education and English Language Arts. Previously taught Kindergarten at OMPS. Why Teach?
Ever since I was young, I knew that I wanted to be a teacher. My goal is to create a space where children feel safe, accepted and challenged. I aim to instill a passion to learn in all of my students while helping them grow into kind, successful individuals. What excites you about omps?
I have loved every bit of Kindergarten but I am excited to start a new adventure in 2nd grade! interests/hobbies
Aside from teaching, I enjoy boating, crafting, baking and trying new things! |
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education
I went to Augsburg College and graduated with my Bachelors in Elementary Education.I received my degree from Hope College with a major in Elementary Education and a minor in Early Childhood. Why Teach?
I have always wanted to become a teacher since I was young. I love getting to know each student and what makes them unique. I also love to watch each child grow and celebrate them along the way! I'm thrilled for the opportunity to join this amazing team at OMPS! What excites you about omps?
Old Mission stands out to me for its strong community support system. I cannot wait to join the OMPS family and work alongside some incredible people. I look forward to meeting my second graders and their families! interests/hobbies
I love to stay active, be outdoors, and spend time with my puppy Otis. Family is also very important to me. I love exploring new places, watching the sunset, and being on the lake. |
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education
I graduated from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis with a bachelors degree in Elementary Education. I have taught two years of third grade and two years of second grade in Greenwood, IN. Why Teach?
I knew from a young age that I wanted to be teacher when I grew up. I love building strong relationships with all my students and watching them grow throughout the school year. Teaching is very rewarding! What excites you about omps?
I am super excited for my big move to Michigan and OMPS! I look forward to working with the amazing staff and getting to know the students and families at OMPS. interests/hobbies
In my free time I love reading, baking tasty treats, and going on hikes with my dog, Moose! |
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education
Grew up in Rochester Hills, MI. I studied Elementary Education at Michigan State University Why Teach?
Teaching is my passion because growing up, I have always looked up to my own teachers as role models. I want to help kids learn and grow, and to remind them every day that they have the potential to achieve anything they set their minds to. What excites you about omps?
OMPS excites me because of the caring and passionate environment. Every staff member has the same mindset of putting students first. I am so excited to see all the great opportunity and growth this year has to offer. interests/hobbies
I love to be by the lake! My favorite summer hobby is paddle boarding. I also love to snowboard in the winter. |
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education
I received my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with a focus in Language Arts and a minor in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from Michigan State University. This will be my first year of teaching at Old Mission Peninsula School! Why Teach?
I have always loved the classroom and its many ways to inspire, create change, and reach goals. Teaching provides opportunities for on-going learning amongst all ages, academic and social-emotional growth, and chances to build community. What excites you about omps?
The people and the community are what make the difference at OMPS! I am so excited to begin this journey with Old Mission Peninsula's incredible staff, students, and families. Let's go, fourth grade! interests/hobbies
I love to volunteer, adventure outdoors, and spend time with family and friends! |
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education
I have degrees in Music and Elementary Education from Alma College with a minor in English. I have a Master of Arts in Music from Ball State University where I also did doctoral studies in Music. Why Teach?
I teach because I love learning and I think it is one of the most important things we can do our entire lives! I love helping young people become lifelong learners, too. What excites you about omps?
I am excited about the family atmosphere, the amazing campus location, and all of the great opportunities that OMPS provides. interests/hobbies
I love music, reading, knitting, traveling, and being outdoors--especially in beautiful Northern Michigan! |
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education
I graduated from Hope College in 1998 with a BA in Learning Disabilities and I earned my Master's Degree in Emotional Impairments from Grand Valley State University in 2006. Why Teach?
I come from a family of educators and teaching has always been my passion. I have been so fortunate to have been in many different positions over the years. As our family has transitioned to new places, I have been able to try out new assignments. Each time I enter a new position, I am exposed to new ideas and amazing staff that creatively construct magnificent classrooms. I love supporting teachers in any way I can to help our students become engaged in the learning process and self-driven in their goals and ambitions. Even as a "stay-at-home" mom, I was always volunteering to help with various children's programs. I love working with children of all ages. What excites you about omps?
I am looking forward to meeting new staff members, students, and families. I am thrilled to be teaching special education again and so excited to be working at OMPS! interests/hobbies
I love to read. I also enjoy being outside at the beach or in the woods, running, hiking, biking, boating, and camping with our family. |
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education
BFA Painting College for Creative Studies, Detroit, MI. MAT Maryland Institute College of Art, Baltimore, MD. Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, Deer Isle, ME. Why Teach?
I’ve always enjoyed and been interested in children. They’re funny, spontaneous, curious, authentic and perplexing. Art can be magic, thrilling, and at times daunting and intimidating. I cannot think of a better way to engage with, learn about and support children through all of this self-discovery and learning about our world than through the arts. And through it all I grow as a person and an artist. What excites you about omps?
I can’t wait to settle in, get to know the staff and children, and see what interesting and exciting things we come up with to do together! interests/hobbies
I can find it hard to be inside on a beautiful day and enjoy outdoor activities in every season! I’ve been an organic gardener for years and have chickens too. I also really like to cook. I love reading and learning about all kinds of things, but especially the arts and sciences. I treasure time with my family and friends as well as the solitary time in my studio. |
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Education
I am a Traverse City native. I attended Central Michigan University and received my Bachelor's of Science in Education. why teach?
Children are the world's future. It is a privilege to have a small impact on their lives as they grow and develop. Music is a passion that children can take with them through the rest of their lives. Music is also a creative outlet where students can learn the reward of patience and perseverance. what excites you about omps?
I am very excited to be a part of the OMPS team! It is so encouraging to see the amazing administration and staff excited to teach and learn alongside their students. The beautiful Northern Michigan backdrop allows for teaching to expand beyond the walls of the school and encourages a lifelong love of learning. interest/hobbies
I My husband and I enjoy all things music! You can find us at one of his band's shows, hiking or visiting the Upper Peninsula in the summertime. We love playing piano, guitar and singing together on Sundays at our church. We welcomed a baby boy this past June! |
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education
Why Teach?
What excites you about omps?
interests/hobbies
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education
I grew up in the Chicagoland area where I completed my undergraduate degree in Community Health and Wellness. In 2016, I attained a graduate degree in Public Health (MPH) with an emphasis in community health education. My relevant professional experiences include program development and educational instruction in the areas of physical activity, nutrition and sexual health. Prior to joining OMPS, I worked for Michigan State University Extension in their Children and Youth Institute. Why Teach?
When reflecting on my work history, the one thing that stood out was the satisfaction I received while working with kids. Kids are so cool. They are funny, creative, curious, and authentic. Being around them helps remind me of the joy life has to offer, which I think most adults need in a world that can leave us cynical and jaded. I hope to help all our students achieve their full potential. What excites you about omps?
The whole community, from staff to families, has a very welcoming attitude. Everyone is committed to the well-being and academic success of the students. I am excited to contribute to the continued success of the school’s vision and mission. interests/hobbies
Most of my free time is spent with my wife and our three boys. We enjoy being outside hiking, swimming, or just enjoying the many scenic sights of northern Michigan. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is another passion of mine, and I often find myself wrestling my kids on the living room floor, much to the chagrin of my wife… |
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education
I received my Bachelor's Degree from Central Michigan University and Masters in Counseling from University of La Verne in California. I have 25 years experience in several different school districts, in various capacities. I have also been a Substitute Teacher, Early Childhood Education Director and developer of preschools, home visitor, parent educator, infant mental health consultant, and counselor of students of all ages. I also have a private counseling practice in Traverse City, where I have mostly an adult client-base. What excites you about omps?
I am excited about the small school family feel of OMPS. I have been in many schools over my career and feel there is something special about this place! I am excited to meet the students and staff of OMPS and see how I might offer added support to an already amazing community. I lived out here on the peninsula about 22 years ago, so in a sense it feels like coming full circle in my life/career. interests/hobbies
I enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling to new places, and most recently one of my #1 favorite things is spending time with my new, amazing grandson! I also like reading, listening to music and running – this summer I accomplished a long -time goal by participating in the 8 Mile Mackinaw Island Run. |
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education
I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and I obtained a Master’s Degree with a Master in the Art of Teaching focusing on Reading and Literacy from Mary Grove College. I taught second grade for two years in southwest Florida. In 2008, I moved up to Michigan after marrying my husband and taught third grade for six years in Oxford, Michigan. Why Teach?
Ever since the third grade I have wanted to become a teacher. My main goal as an educator is for students to be excited to come to school and have fun learning! I want to instill the value of being a life-long learner and serving others. What excites you about omps?
interests/hobbies
I love to be outside in all seasons either running, hiking, walking my pups, snow skiing and boating. I also love to be with my family! |
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education
I studied at Miami-Dade under business in Supervision and Management. I also had an internship at a private care facility working with children, newborns to 12 years old. Why teach?
I love to be able to teach kids different things and ways of learning. Being able to witness their growth and experiences makes me know they have a great future ahead of them. I’ll always drop everything to help a student out. what excites you about OMPS?
What excites me about OMPS is how loving and caring the peninsula community is. I have family who work for surrendering farmers for over 30 years and they would always tell me how much love they receive. I feel lucky to be apart of the school community and helping future generations. I have two kids who attend here and transitioned greatly. Intrests/Hobbies?
I love many playing different sports with my older child and building Lego sets with my youngest. I also like taking trips to different states and parks. We also like to watch movies and play video/board games. We love to go to the lake everyday in the summer. We also like to eat a lot of cherries and apples from the farm. |
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education
Masters Physician Assistant Studies, GVSU 2021 Bachelors English/Philosophy, WMU 2006 Why Teach?
Working at OMPS is a great opportunity to connect with our community in a meaningful way. As a father of two students, I'm particularly invested in the development and well-being of our local grade schoolers! What excites you about omps?
Excited to be part of a team so invested in the development and success of our students. I have been nothing but impressed with OMPS staff, and enjoy being able to support the team. interests/hobbies
Kayaking, Hiking, Travel, SCUBA, Gardening |
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education
Textiles and Apparel Studies with emphasis in Design WMU 2000 What excites you about OMPS?
I have played many roles with OMPS from parent to PTO to School Board and now working in the school. Just so proud of the school and how far we come, it is an honor to work here with all this amazing Crew! Intrests/Hobbies?
I love spending time with my husband and kids. Love going on hikes and bicycle rides. My current hobbies are quilting, rug making and sewing anything I can. |
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education
Associates in Science, Pasco-Hernando State College what excites you about omps?
As a member of the Old Mission community and a parent of a child who attends OMPS, I am excited to be apart of the continued tradition of having a school on the peninsula. I am looking forward to working with the members of the community and the staff to keep this school up and running and a gem of the community. interests/hobbies
I love spending time with my family being outdoors, playing board games and just having quality time together. We love skiing in the winter and hanging on the beach and boating on West Bay all summer. We are very fortunate to live in an area that offers so much to explore! |
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education
Associate of Business Administration from NMC Bachelor of Business Management with a Specialty in Entrepreneurship from GVSU Natural Foods Chef Certification from Natural Gourmet Institute in NYC what excites you about omps?
I love that so many of their values align with my personal values! I try to be a human that makes as little waves as possible in the environment. I love that my job is to create delicious, healthy food for kiddos, all the while producing minimal waste, and doing so in a conscientious manner. Interests/Hobbies
I love being with my two young children, spending time in and around the water and exploring nature. I enjoy gardening, harvesting and preserving the bounty it gives me, and making my own maple syrup. I also love teaching allergy-friendly/diet specific private cooking and pastry classes for people who are interested in learning. I enjoy budgeting and teaching others to live well within their means. |