Welcome to my portfolio. I am a second generation Texas educator in my thirtieth year of teaching. The dream of becoming a great 'explainer' began at the age of five, and that was several years ago!

     I have four driving passions and I believe to know them is to come to understand me. My first passion is my family. I have a wonderful loving husband, three fantastic boys, a terrific daughter-in-law, and four sweet granddaughters. I am extremely fortunate to have a large extended family throughout the state of Texas and in Washington state.

     My second passion is teaching. I have taught all ages from kindergarten to senior citizens in different areas - rural to metropolitan in many different areas. I began teaching in a rural district which had combined grades. I taught two grades in one room! From there I moved to teaching drop-out youth, to second grade, kindergarten, special education and on into administration. My senior citizen experience was with the Arthritis Foundation. As Director of the Heart of Texas Branch, I taught a couple of courses in pain management and exercise.

     The last two passions define my character. I am passionate about laughter. I believe the most beautiful sight in the world is a smile. With every interaction I enter, my goal is to make the individual smile and laugh. A glorious belly laugh is the most melodious sound in the world.

     My last passion is learning. I believe all educators should be life-long learners. I am currently completing the record of study for a Doctorate of Education in Administration (Ed.D.) from Texas A&M University. Whoop! I am researching the vital connection between school and community. As small rural district enrollments continue to decline due to economic factors consolidation and closure loom in their future. With the technology breakthroughs small districts can now move into competition for any student, however, the district and community must make the shift and embrace the change in instructional delivery to survive. Small districts are at a crossroads to success or consolidation.

     These are exciting times in education. I'm thrilled to be along for the ride. Come on in and see if you find anything of interest.

 

-Charla