I started teaching by default and like many, based on raw instincts.

 

 When kids in my neighborhood bent towards the dramatic I started "playing"some classic Spolin Improv games and when those worked their magic, I was as hooked as the kids were.

 

 The journey began:  from volunteering in libraries and community centers to being a paid "learn in the field"     Teaching Artist in Chicagoland schools for over 15 years  with organizations like Chicago Children's Museum and Urban Gateways. A bigger picture beckoned  and with a move to New York, internationally recognized beacons like Lincoln Center Institute inspired me to bring  progressive Arts Education to every borough of New York City. 

 

 I dug deeper with a Masters in Education from DePaul University and taught High School English and Theatre full time (Stevenson High School, Chi Arts) with a home base at Steppenwolf Education where I served as a  Mentoring Teaching Artist and Core Curriculum Facilitator and Classroom Mentor.

 

​ I remain a teacher grounded in a reflective practice; a fan of professional development and pedagogies that invite me to learn as much as my students. There is no teaching without learning.