"Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today." -Malcolm X

 I was part of the inaugural staff as a 6th grade teacher when it opened its doors for the 2017-2018 school year.  As an educator, I am a lifelong learner and lover of languages and culture, having received my B.A. in Linguistics and Psychology from UCLA in 2008 and my M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of San Diego in 2017. Additionally, I lived and worked in South Korea as an elementary school teacher from 2010 to 2015, teaching English language and culture while also immersing myself in the Korean language and local customs and traditions.



While learning and teaching have kept me busy, I also enjoy family time and leading an active lifestyle. As someone who has combated - and is still combating - obesity, I try to be a positive role model for family, friends, students, and the entire weight loss community by sharing my journey and providing motivation and tips for a healthier lifestyle. Through powerlifting, I have gained strength physically and mentally and have empowered others to break through stereotypes and use strength and mobility training to improve overall well-being. In accordance with my belief in overall well-being, I have traveled around the world and had the opportunity to visit some of the most amazing wonders of the world from Angkor Wat to the Tower Bridge, from Halong Bay to the Pantheon - experiences that have enriched my life and given me a broad global perspective. 

My mom has this saying that was passed down to her from her mother: "You carve your own destiny." In other words, the only limits we have are those we place on ourselves. As an educator, I believe I am always a work in progress and strive to be the best version of myself and hold my students to the same expectations.