Q: What inspired you to enter into a career in education?
A: I’ve always known I wanted to be in education—it was never a question. Teaching felt more like a calling than a career choice. I never seriously considered anything else because I couldn’t imagine a life without learning and helping others learn.
What inspired me most was my love for kids. Their energy, curiosity, and excitement for learning is contagious. Watching a student’s face light up when they master something new is one of the most rewarding aspects of this job.
I also genuinely love to learn. Working in education constantly pushes me to grow, whether it’s through new strategies, fresh ideas, or even lessons I learn from students. It keeps me engaged and inspired every day.
Q: Where are you from, and how did you get to Chanute if you are not from here.
A: I moved to Chanute when I was a sophomore in high school. Since then, Chanute has become home, and I’ve stayed here ever since.
Q: What is your favorite thing about your job?
A: One of the things I love most about being a principal in an elementary school is the energy and excitement that fills the building from the moment I walk through the door. No two days are ever the same, and I’m constantly learning, doing, and finding joy in the little moments with students and staff.
Working with an incredible team of educators is a huge part of what makes this job so fulfilling. I truly enjoy collaborating with teachers, sharing ideas, and supporting one another. Having a strong, positive staff culture makes a big difference, and I’m so grateful to be surrounded by passionate, dedicated people.
What means the most to me, though, is knowing the impact we have—not just academically, but in the lives of students and their families. The connections we make can last a lifetime. It’s not always about the lessons we teach, but the relationships we build and the support we give that truly make a difference.
Q: Are there any challenges you have faced in your role?
A: One challenge I sometimes face as an elementary school principal is balancing the numerous responsibilities that come with the role—supporting teachers, managing student needs, communicating with families, and handling unexpected situations —all within a single day. It can feel overwhelming at times.
However, what keeps me going is knowing that every decision we make and every challenge we work through is all for the benefit of our students. Even on the hardest days, seeing a child succeed or watching a teacher try something new and thrive makes it all worth it.
Q: How has your career evolved over time?
A: My career in education began 23 years ago as a 3rd grade teacher, and from the very beginning, I knew I had found my passion. After a few years, I transitioned to teaching kindergarten at Chanute Elementary School, where I spent 17 wonderful years. I loved helping young learners build a strong foundation and watching their excitement as they discovered new things each day.
Two years ago, I took on a new role as the assistant principal at CES. Shifting from the classroom to administration has been both a challenge and a rewarding experience. It’s given me the opportunity to support not just students, but teachers and families as well. While my role looks different now, my heart for education and my dedication to helping kids grow has remained the same.
Q: Why is education important?
A: Education is important because it shapes the foundation of who we become—not just academically, but as people. Education opens doors, builds relationships, and creates opportunities for both students and educators. It’s not just about learning facts—it’s about learning how to think, how to work together, and how to navigate the world. I truly believe that the connections we make in schools can change lives, and that’s what makes education so meaningful to me.
Q: What do you enjoy outside of work?
Outside of work, I really enjoy relaxing with a good book and spending quality time with my family. Whether it’s a quiet evening reading or making memories together, those moments help me recharge and bring balance to my life.
Q: Can you tell me about your homelife? Spouse? Kids? Pets?
A: My husband Danny and I have two sons, Wyatt and Landon, and we’re proud grandparents to our sweet granddaughter, Ansley. Our family also includes our two dogs, Shadow and Roxie, who keep things lively at home!
