Hello all!

I have been teaching for 23 years. Most of my experience has been with young children. I have taught preschool, kindergarten, first, second, and third grades. I received my "Reading Recovery" certificate and worked as a reading teacher as well.

I am determined to debunk the myth of burnt out old teachers. Being here at the ATI is living proof that I am still capable and enthusiastic about learning new things to improve my teaching and better serve my students. I am excited about being at the ATI this summer!

I have been involved with the Writing Project since 1990. I consider myself one of the RWP historians. I have done numerous jobs with RWP and this is perhaps my twelfth year as the co-director of the ISI. I know I would not still be teaching without the support from my colleagues at the RWP.

When I am not teaching I enjoy working in my yard, petting my kitty and spending time with my family and friends. I live near all my three sisters - two are teachers and one is a nurse for North Coast children's services. My 85 year old mother lives at Timber Ridge and we all take care of her.

I was born to clean, organize and make salads. I like things to be orderly, so I am always organizing. I believe I have tried out every space saver and organizing gadget on the market. My big job this summer is painting rooms and organizing. At every family function I am asked to bring the salad. I make a salad almost every night for dinner. I began my salad making at age 12. . . And I live with a messy husband so I clean all the time. My son is home for the summer from college, so he is cleaning too - well, when I ask him! Of course, teaching young children requires cleaning and creating an organized environment, so . . . I sure get enough practice.

I love cats and my big kitty Charlie is sitting on my lap right now. To Charlie computers = a nice warm lap to sit on with occasional pets.

1. What is your favorite word? discourse
2. What is your least favorite word? absolutely
3. What turns you on creatively, spiritually, or emotionally? laughter
4. What turns you off? road rage
5. What is your favorite curse word? shit or Jimmy Cricket, depending on the audience
6. What sound or noise do you love? cats purring
7. What sound or noise do you hate? loud talking
8. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? physical therapist
9. What profession would you not like to do? accountant
10. If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Stefanie, there are NO farts here. (This has to do with teaching appropriate fart etiquette to my students every year!