I have been blessed to be the principal at Fairmount Elementary for the past 12 years, and this community has been my home for nearly four decades. As principal, I’m passionate about creating a school where students feel safe, known, and inspired, and where teachers feel supported and valued. I’ve lived in this beautiful area for 39 years, and I love spending time outdoors—hiking, biking, and soaking up all four seasons with my husband, who shares my love for the mountains. Family means everything to me, and I feel lucky that our two grown sons also live nearby. I will be retiring from Jeffco Public Schools soon, but I will always be part of this community. This place, these people—this is where my heart is!
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career/accomplishments. What do you love most about what you do?
I’ve been fortunate to spend the past 25 years with Jeffco Public Schools, teaching 1st, 3rd, and 5th grades, supporting fellow educators as an instructional coach, and serving as principal at Fairmount Elementary for the past 12 years. What I’ve loved most throughout my career is the daily joy of seeing our students grow, and working alongside an incredible team of dedicated teachers, paras, and supportive families. Our strong parent community and active PTA have truly made Fairmount feel like a second home. A true highlight of my time at Fairmount was receiving the National Blue Ribbon of Excellence in 2022—a recognition that reflects the dedication of our entire school community. As I look ahead to my upcoming retirement, I’m excited to stay connected by volunteering with children, exploring more of Colorado through camping, hiking, and biking, and—hopefully—enjoying time with future grandchildren.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants or breweries in our community?
I love the restaurant scene in Golden! My favorites are Woody’s Pizza, The Golden Mill, Atomic Cowboy, and Santiago’s Burritos.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have had the privilege of working at Fairmount Elementary for 12 years!.
Q: What is one of your favorite hiking or biking trails?
I can see my favorite, South Table Mountain, from my school office window! I also love the Clear Creek Trail.
Q: What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?
School leadership is rewarding and challenging. Make time for fun things like getting outside every day!
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The Golden Mill. It hasn’t been there for many years, but it is locally owned and operated by people who live in the community. I think the local, one-of-a-kind businesses in Golden are what make our community unique and special.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love the small-community atmosphere within the larger Denver metro area. Many families at my school are multi-generational students. These families have lived in the area for many years, which shows the strength and family values of the community.
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Not everyone knows that I still have handwritten notes from students I taught over 20 years ago—they remind me why this work has always mattered so much!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Every time I see one of my students light up with understanding or show kindness to another student, I’m reminded why I’m here. I care deeply about all of their success and their well-being, and I want them to grow into confident, compassionate people. That’s what inspires me to be the best principal I can be for them!
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, Community, Outdoor Fun
