USD 495 is excited to welcome a new teacher who brings a diverse background in education, coaching, and the arts.
A 1999 graduate of Ellinwood High School, she attended Barton County Community College before earning her Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from Fort Hays State University, along with endorsements in Physical Education and ESOL.
She began her career teaching K-6 music in Ellinwood for seven years before moving to Great Bend, where she taught high school Physical Education. She also brings 17 years of coaching experience in volleyball and track and field (javelin), including eight years as a head volleyball coach.
She and her husband, Jason, have a blended family of seven children: Courtney, Morgan, Jordan, Peyton, Rylie, Brooklyn, and Gentry, who will be a senior this fall. They also have two dogs, Ky and Rudy. The couple recently celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary.
Outside of school, she enjoys performing in musicals, spending time with family, and traveling. She and Jason visited Italy last year and are planning another international trip this summer. A fun fact: she has sung in more than 100 weddings since she was 16 years old.
What excites her most about joining USD 495 is meeting new students and becoming part of the Larned community.
"I am an extremely upbeat person, and I hope to share my enthusiasm and positivity with everyone I meet."
Please join us in giving her a warm welcome to USD 495!