I am thrilled to be the principal of Hawks Nest Steam Academy. I am originally from Southwest Virginia and now proudly call Gaston County my home. Before joining Hawks Nest, I worked as an assistant principal at Grier Middle School, Mt. Holly Middle School, and Costner Elementary. I earned my Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Education from Western Carolina University in 2008. In 2019, I completed my Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Winthrop University, and now I am pursuing my Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

With over fifteen years of experience in education, I spent five years teaching middle and high school band in North Carolina and Virginia, and seven years teaching PreK through 8th grade music in Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. I am a National Board Certified Teacher and was honored as the North Carolina Music Educator of the Year in 2020.

As a dedicated leader, I am passionate about integrating joy and fun into education. I firmly believe in the potential of all students and the collective effort needed to help each individual reach their personal goals. My objective is to cultivate a learning environment that fosters success and a lifelong love for learning. I am eager to collaborate with students, teachers, families, and community members to make this year the best one yet!