I began my teaching journey as a summer intern at the Teton Science School. This was my first experience working with school groups and running summer programs in outdoor settings. It was also my first opportunity to create EE lessons that engaged learners in experiential education. Although I was determined to get my degree in Elementary Education from the University of Montana, I added a minor in Environmental Studies because the university didn't offer a degree in EE. The following summers I worked for the Montana Natural History Center and then the Glacier Institute at the Big Creek Outdoor Education Center. I completed my student teaching in Browning, MT on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. During this time I also worked for the Carol White Afterschool Program and provided afterschool programming to students in the elementary school. In the fall I took on a long-term substitute position in the 3rd grade, before taking the summer off and riding my bike to Alaska! Fall came and I began my first teaching position in Browning at Napi Elementary in 6th grade. I taught 6th grade for 2 years before moving to Alaska.

I decided to get back to my summer camp roots, and founded and directed Haines Science Camp, a place-based, student inquiry driven program for students in preschool through middle school in Haines. I created over 18 weeks of hands-on, EE lessons and ran the program for 5 years before assisting the Haines Sheldon Museum in taking over the program. I then began a new journey as the 4th grade teacher at the Haines School.  I worked in this position for three years. During that time I took advantaged of every opportunity to take my class outside. We went on regular field trips; exploring local trails, cross-country skiing, sledding, visiting local gardens and farms, and exploring the watershed.

Eventually, I felt the pull to be back in the EE field and resigned from the school to start a new position as the Education Coordinator for Takshanuk Watershed Council. In this position I have created EE opportunities for students in Haines, Klukwan and Mosquito Lake. I work with preschool through adult learners by providing formal classroom lessons, outdoor education, and hands-on workshops. I offer gardening and composting education, SnowSchool, create and produce an educational podcast; Watershed Weekly, and lead citizen-science projects like Stream Team. Click here to learn more about the educational programs offered at Takshanuk Watershed Council.

I serve on the Alaska Natural Resource and Education Board ANROE and partner with local, regional, and national partners to provide high quality environmental education in the Chilkat Valley.