Ciao Bambini Families and Amici!
I am beyond excited to begin my 10th year teaching at Bambini! What began with a conversation with a fellow teacher about what an incredible place Bambini was quickly sparked my curiosity. I knew I had to experience it for myself. From the moment I walked through the front doors, I knew there was something truly special about this community, and I wanted to be a part of it in any way I could.
I began by shadowing and volunteering, eager to learn more about the Reggio Emilia approach and the unique philosophy that makes Bambini so special. I was fortunate to participate in Bambini’s internship program through the University of Kansas, and from there, I had opportunities to co-lead summer camp and serve as a substitute teacher. Eventually, I found my way into the classroom as a teacher, a dream come true! Ten years later, I continue to feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and explore alongside our amici!
I was raised in Leawood, Kansas, fortunate to grow up in a family that valued travel, adventure, and exploring the world around us. From our memorable family road trips to our second home in Colorado to adventures around the globe (Italy and Sweden to name a few), I was introduced to many different cultures and perspectives from an early age. These experiences helped shape my appreciation for curiosity, connection, and learning through exploration.
While attending the University of Kansas (Rock Chalk!), I studied Applied Behavioral Science with a concentration in Early Childhood Autism Intervention. I have had the privilege of working with children for more than 24 years and have especially cherished opportunities to support children with diverse needs. My experiences have continued to deepen my belief that every child has unique strengths, perspectives, and ways of learning.
I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of Bambini’s journey with the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The opportunity to encourage our students to “think globally, act locally” is one that I value deeply. I am excited to continue growing as an educator alongside our community and to help create meaningful learning experiences that encourage curiosity, compassion, creativity, and a sense of responsibility for the world around us.
My connection to Bambini has also become deeply personal. All three of my children have attended Bambini, and experiencing the school as both an educator and a parent has given me an even greater appreciation for what makes this community so extraordinary. As a parent, I see my own childhood experiences through a different lens and understand how meaningful it is to provide children with an environment where they feel supported, encouraged, and free to discover who they are.
Bambini is truly a place where we all continue to grow, children, educators, parents, and our community as a whole. Most importantly, it is a place that honors young children and gives them the freedom to develop creatively, naturally, and with confidence.
I am so grateful to continue this journey at Bambini and look forward to another wonderful year of learning, discovery, and connection with our students and families. I can’t wait to see where our journey takes us!