As I reflect on the life experiences that have led to seeking a seat on the Centennial City Council for District 1, it is clear that this is a natural next step.  

Connection to Centennial

The early years of my life were spent in Fremont, Nebraska, a town of 22,000 people.  Even with close proximity to both Omaha and Lincoln, it had a distinctive small-town feel.  The city of Centennial, with its proximity to Denver, has a similar feel to my home town.  District 1 even has a similar population:  20,000.  Thus I have felt a sense of familiarity with this community from the beginning.

Civic Service

Serving on a city council is a service to your community.  I learned about civic service early in life.  My parents were consistently involved in civic activities through volunteering at our church in Fremont and providing assistance at community outreach programs.  Growing up in a small community with civic-minded parents instilled the importance of engagement in my community and public service.  

While president of the Youth Group in high school I organized community outreach activities such as visiting long-term care facilities for the elderly to provide art activities, singalongs and companionship.  We also prepared and served meals for disadvantaged members of our community.  Volunteering as a counselor at summer camps for learning disabled adults and children was another satisfying experience in the field of civic service.  

A Profession in Centennial 

 My thirty-four year career with Littleton Public Schools is a testimony to the loyalty and dedication I give to my profession and to this community.   Through the years I was able to work in three different schools:  Highland, Franklin and Field Elementary.  I also held three different positions: elementary classroom teacher, literacy specialist and instructional coach.  Each school and position afforded unique experiences for acquiring skills that will support my work on city council.  

At each school I was highly involved, serving on multiple committees, leading many professional development trainings, and attaining the highest level of training credits on the Littleton Public Schools scale.  I also served on district curriculum writing boards, educator effectiveness committees and earned a Masters Degree in Education from Regis University.  My involvement was intense and diverse, which has prepared me well for opportunities to serve on committees, boards and commissions as part of city council responsibilities. 

An Educational Perspective 

Undoubtedly I bring an educational perspective to the Centennial City Council that is unique.  I am the only city council candidate with classroom teaching experience or a background in education.  It is with pride that I bring this asset, along with my enduring passion to learn and grow, to a position on Centennial’s City Council, my natural next step.