I am a 2nd Grade teacher at Liberty Elementary. I have worked in the Big Lake schools for 12 years. I grew up in Elk River and moved to Big Lake 18 years ago.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have been happily married to my husband Doug for 22 years. We have 3 children – 2 sons and a daughter. Denton – 21 attending University of Wisconsin – Stout. Kian – 19 attending University of Wisconsin – Stout and Andraya – 17 a senior here at Big Lake High School
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Cambo Flare and Ember Coffee. I really appreciate how they try to bring our community together.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past or future career plan. What do you/did you love most about it?
I was a stay at home mom and was a substitute teacher until my daughter was in first grade. Then I got a job at Independence Elementary. I was very thankful to get a job in Big Lake schools, because I was able to teach in the school where my children went. Once the schools switched to a primary and an intermediate buildings I moved to Liberty Elementary and have been there since. I love teaching in the schools where my children went and I love teaching in the community that I live in.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in Big Lake for 18 years and have worked in Big Lake for 12 Years.
Q: Do you have any pets? If so, what are they and what are their names?
We have one dog. His name is Obi. Yes, it is short for Obi-wan-Kenobi.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV Shows?
Ted Lasso
Q: What is your favorite holiday? Favorite season?
My favorite season is spring. I love watching everything come to life.
Q: What advice would you give to people living in Big Lake?
Get involved and be connected to the people who share your community. Being connected helps make your life more enjoyable.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
To travel to all 50 states. So far I have been to about 35 of them.
Q: What is your favorite current or former business in our community?
Ember Coffee – They have such a warm inviting environment, the staff are always so happy, and it is a great place to meet up with friends and family.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
My daughter was crowned a Big Lake Ambassador this past summer at Spud Fest, which has going to many parades and festivals around the Twin Cities area. In going to all these events, I never realized how much Spud Fest has to offer our community. I guess I have just taken it for granted. Way to go Spud Fest!
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In 5-10 years I will still be teaching, having touched even more students’ lives with my teaching and thoroughly enjoying my children as adults and their families.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My husband and my children
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of Big Lake?
Friendly, supportive, and enjoyable.
