Fun Facts

I've always been all about getting out. I was raised fishing, hunting, camping, and playing sports. I have always loved the wild places in this world and respected the power of nature. Science and learning are my passions, and practicing and using knowledge in the real world is a source of great enjoyment.

About Me

I am an Alaskan, born and raised in what was the small fishing town of Ketchikan. I mention it because I feel that the fact has affected who I am in many ways. I was really into sports and scouting when I was in my middle years, keeping active kept me safe. Later I got excited about engineering and architecture. I attended undergraduate school in Missoula, Montana; a place that allowed for my extracurricular explorations. In my Junior year I traveled to New Zealand to study e-marketing and Anthropology (an interesting mix). I returned to Missoula and graduated with a BS in Business in 2004. At that time I moved to Anchorage Alaska and worked for the Parks & Recreation department in therapeutic recreation. I then worked as a dockhand in SE Alaska, then as a deckhand in Maui. I worked at an animal sanctuary in Maui as well. I returned from Hawaii to Alaska out of necessity in 2006. Upon my return I worked as a prep and line chef as well as a substitute teacher. It was at this time in my life that I first got to enjoy working in education.

After being headbutted by a particularly aggressive student and having the opportunity to meet with the principal and family I decided that I had finally found my last career. I enrolled in the teaching certificate and Masters program at University of Alaska Southeast.

While attending school I worked for Title VII Indian Education as a youth development portland">tutor for Alaska Native and American Indian students. I also coached the Native Youth Olympic teams at two middle schools. Once I received my Alaska state teaching certificate in December 09 I began teaching middle school science.

Last May I began the move to Oregon with my fiancee who I met in Maui 6 years ago. I have been finishing the last research papers of my Masters Portfolio and enjoying the Portland area, culture and climate. I am excited to once again be working with middle age and secondary students, helping them find success and enjoy learning. Learning and growth comes as naturally as breathing and can be as enjoyable as anything. I love facilitating the process, engaging students, and having fun with knowledge.