Educational Background

     I have a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education from the California University of Pennsylvania and a Masters degree in Special Education, Mentally and Physically Handicapped from the University of Pittsburgh.  I have been an Elementary teacher for the Trinity Area School District since August 10th, 1995.  I attended Duquesne University, where I received 24 credits toward Principal certification.

     I was previously employed at Horace Mann Elementary School, which is part of the Pittsburgh Public School system.  I was the primary Learning Support Teacher in the building. I taught first, second, and third grade students in the curriculum areas of reading, language arts, and mathematics.  Teaching strategies focused on short and long term goals based on the student's IEP and established curriculum objectives.  Behavior modification programs were implemented on an individual and classroom basis.  Positive reinforcement was used to motivate and build the self-esteem of students.

     I was employed by the Allegheny Neuropsychiatric Institute in the Partial Hospital Program directed by Dr. John McGonigle.  My primary role was to teach children with neurological and psychiatric disorders.  I was supervisor of curriculum development and behavior modification programs, as well as the implementation and assessment of the aforementioned programs.  I also supervised a team of assistants who also implemented the program under my direction.