So, who is this LiBLOGrian from Olivet?

Here we go again!
This will be my third Master Degree and I am seriously hoping that the third time really and truly is the charm! I love to learn. I do. But this may be getting a bit ridiculous! My first was in Curriculum and Instruction. It was a great experience, but was not really what I was looking for. After some more soul searching, I decided I would make an amazing principal! However, soon after finishing the program and earning my second degree, I changed my mind. I really dislike getting up in front of adults and the thought of staff meetings simply terrified me! So, I convinced myself that I could stay content in the classroom for a while. Well, it did not take long for me to come to the realization that I am happiest when teaching my students how to become better readers, getting them excited about new books, or helping them to research. I knew it was time to just jump in again! In addition to my new status as Olivet Graduate Student, I am also a 4th grade teacher at Roy DeShane in Carol Stream within CCSD93. Throughout my 16 years there, I have taught everything but 2nd and 3rd grade! I enjoy changing grade levels because I know that someday (soon?) I will venture out of the classroom. My hope is that my varied experiences will allow me to better understand the needs of all of the learners and educators in the elementary setting. I want to be able to help everyone! 

If I had to rate myself on a scale of 1-5 in regards to my technology experience and capabilities (and I do for this class), I would give myself a solid three! I have recently become one of our school's Digital Leaders through Discovery Education. Technology is a big part of my classroom since I am fortunate to work in a one to one district where each child has their own device. Having so much technology access has been an adjustment for sure! Surprisingly, while I can easily learn the latest and greatest technology programs and I see the value in bringing the newest tech tools to my students, my desk is still covered in post it notes and hand written lesson plans. The truth is that I am at the age where I understand technology and can willingly use it with ease, but I still enjoy the comforts of a time without it and often prefer the old ways of pencil and paper. Gasp!

I currently live in South Elgin with my husband, my 8 year old son, and my 13 year old daughter.  My husband also has a son who is 9 days younger than my daughter (who is also from a previous marriage). When we meet new people and they hear that the two oldest are the same age, they always ask if they are twins. My husband loves telling people that they are 9 days apart and watching their expression as they try to figure that out! My husband and I met when we taught together a very long time ago. We will be celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary this December!
After teaching for five years, my husband made the decision to leave the classroom. He now works for Discovery Education so education is still a very big part of our relationship. Unfortunately, his job requires a great deal of travel so I am often on my own which can be trying. But, he is the most supportive person I have in my life and is a wonderful husband and father. We both love our blended family and enjoy spending time together when we can.

When I am not teaching or in class, my life happily revolves around my active children. Our world is filled with baseball, basketball, softball, football, tumbling, and competitive cheer. We are always on the move but I would not have it any other way.