I grew up in Monkton, MD and moved to Harford County when I was 22 years old. I have always lived in the Town of Bel Air, but spent many weekends hiking the various trails of the county. My first job was at Aberdeen Middle School. After working there for 2 years, I worked at Bel Air Middle School for 22 years. I worked at HCPS Central Office for 5 years before returning to the classroom at Bel Air High School where I teach 9th grade English. I love the students and families of Harford County and am grateful to have taught and mentored thousands of our youth throughout my 32-year career.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have a husband named Jim who is a retired attorney. He practiced law on Courtland street for eight years. I have three children, Sarah 27, Anna 21, and Joshua 19. They all went to Harford County Schools. I have two step-children named Jesse 25, and Maddie 32. They live in the Harrisburg area in PA.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have been a teacher in Harford County for 32 years. I got my English, teaching, and leadership degrees and certifications from Towson University. I earned a doctorate from Walden University and am an adjunct professor for teachers in masters programs at Goucher College and Wilmington University. I have written several books and delivered many presentations around the country, all in the area of teaching.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Broom’s Bloom Dairy, Barret’s on the Pike
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
23 years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Kate Dallam, owner of Broom’s Bloom
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Waterloo Bridge with Vivien Leigh, Yellowstone, The Haunting of Hill House
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Work hard and be kind.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The Red Fox Inn
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Taylor Swift – we would go to MaGerk’s and sit by the fire. I think Taylor is a fantastic human. I love her devotion to her mom and grandmom. I think she is an amazing, talented, and hardworking performer.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love the woods, streams, and old mills around the county. But I also appreciate the suburban feel that allows for the convenience of modern day life.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Retired, living in Bel Air, and driving a white jeep with a vintage Shasta camper, exploring the country.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I am a painter.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Being a mom
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
God
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
peaceful, nostalgic, and restorative
