Hello Hazel Park Preparatory Academy.  I am excited to join your community as an English/Language Arts teacher for grades 7 and 8.  I have enjoyed working with young people since I was a teenager myself.  I spent 4 summers working at a summer camp during my high school and college years.  I completed my ELA teaching program at Concordia St. Paul and went on to work as a Youth Director at a church (31 years) and taught theology/directed a campus ministry program for  grades 6-12 (25 years).  My responsibilities consisted of teaching classes, leading music, facilitating retreats, assisting with staff development, and conducting community service and justice events.  Along the way I completed my masters in religious education and was both trained in and assisted training others in culturally responsive instruction.  In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading, writing, running, making music and drinking coffee.  I am looking forward to meeting my new students and families and working alongside my HP colleagues.