Learning, Playing, and Praying Together in Faith

Welcome! This is my sixth year at St. Thomas More Cathedral School and my twentieth year in the classroom. Although I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Marymount University and a Master's Degree in Public Relations from American University, I quickly discovered that my true calling wasn't in the nonprofit world—it was in the classroom with young children, where every day is filled with joy, growth, and purpose.

After spending a decade at home raising my three daughters (and now enjoying life as a proud grandmother!), I discovered my passion for teaching while volunteering at my children's preschool. That experience inspired me to begin my teaching career in Fairfax County Public Schools in 2005 before joining the Diocese of Arlington Catholic Schools in 2008. Throughout my career, I have taught exclusively in the primary grades because helping young learners build confidence and discover a love of learning is where my heart truly belongs. Watching children grow day by day and year by year is one of the greatest blessings of my vocation.

Before joining STM, I taught at St. Charles School in Arlington and St. Ambrose School in Annandale. One of the many reasons I was drawn to St. Thomas More was the opportunity to be part of an exceptional Kindergarten team. Working alongside dedicated educators—including my eldest daughter, Mrs. Donovan, who teaches second grade—has been a tremendous blessing.

Our Kindergarten program is built on research-based instructional practices that help students become confident, independent learners. We use the Orton-Gillingham approach to literacy, Starfall Math, small-group reading instruction, comprehension strategies, and faith and virtue formation. Students also enjoy a rich curriculum in science, social studies, and religion, with meaningful connections made across all subject areas.

In my classroom, I believe every child deserves instruction that meets them where they are while encouraging them to reach their fullest potential. Through differentiated instruction in reading and math, I strive to challenge, support, and celebrate each learner. Above all, I seek to model Christ's love, mercy, and compassion in everything we do, helping to form both the minds and hearts of my students.

My goal is for every child to experience a Kindergarten year filled with learning, playing, praying, and growing in faith. As I often remind my students, "Practice makes progress!"