I was born in Georgia and graduated from Oconee County High School in 1984. I attended Samford University and earned my Masters at Auburn University in Social Science Education. I was hired for my first teaching post in Jasper County, Georgia in 1990. I moved back to Trussville, Alabama the next year and taught social studies for 16 years. I was honored to serve as the social studies department chair and won the Birmingham Post-Herald's Distinguished Teacher's Award in 1998. I have traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and Europe as well as being blessed to live for months at a time in unique places such as Israel, Croatia, England, Haiti, and the Ukraine. I returned home in 2007, and have taught at North Oconee High School since then. I am an avid photographer, love the Bulldogs, and my four nieces, one nephew, two godsons, and one goddaughter. I'm planning to continue teaching until the class of 2026 graduates as long as my mind stays sharp, and I continue to love my profession as much as I do now.