I began my adventure in the child care field over 16 years ago. While in high school, I took early education classes. After graduation I worked as a nanny. For the following 3 years I worked with children that had special needs as a paraprofessional at Heartspring. I had a difficult time taking my son to daycare after he was born. I really wanted to be able to spend more time with him. So in 2001, I started offering daycare in my home. It was the best of both worlds! I was able to continue making an income and be with my son.

     While continuing my education, I realized how critical the first 5 years are for children’s development. Working with children quickly went from being a job to my passion. I got my CDA (Child Development Associate) in 2005. Shortly after, my program received national accreditation from NAFCC. Thanks to a wonderful math tutor (my husband), I graduated from Cowley County Community College in 2006. My major was in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Special Education. I am currently volunteering as a mentor with The Family Conservancy in an effort to help increase awareness in other child care professionals of the importance of high quality child care.