Meet The Skyline Staff

-Education: PhD in Biomedical Engineering and Scientific Computation, MA in Education, and BSE in Aerospace Engineering, all from the University of Michigan.
-Hobbies: volleyball, Tae Kwon Do, yoga, drawing and painting.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I bring a passion for teaching and learning, strong interdisciplinary content knowledge and research experience in science and mathematics, and volunteer experience working with children and youth in the Ann Arbor community. I believe in the power of education, not only to convey knowledge, but also to help students become critical thinkers, independent learners, and good, productive citizens. I enjoy developing positive relationships with students, while spreading my love of learning and employing the best educational practices available.
-Length of Service in Education: I have taught one term at the Early College Alliance at EMU, and at Forsythe Middle School for one year as a pre-service teacher.  I also directed a course at the University of Michigan.
 

-Education: BA in History and BFA in Theater from the University of Michigan;  Year abroad at the British-American Drama Academy in London;  MFA in Theater from UCLA;   Teaching Certificate in Social Studies and Speech from California State University at Northridge
-Hobbies: At the moment, my time is entirely dominated by my two small children, Sam and Joey, but at other times of my life, I have enjoyed reading historical fiction, writing fantasy, quilting, wandering through quaint small towns, watching movies with my husband, and listening to folk music.
-Strengths: I am passionate about history, and I attempt to bring to life the astonishing stories of those who set the foundations for the world we now inhabit.  I expect my students to work as hard as they are able, and I hope to instill in them spirit of curiosity mixed with a reasoned, critical approach to all they see and hear.  I do my best to show them my gratitude for their energy and joy.  They are tomorrow's generation, and I try to give them a few tools to use in their task of healing the world.
-Length of Service:  I taught at Pioneer from 2003 - 2011, when I transferred to Skyline.

-Education: Bachelors degree in math and history for secondary ed. from EMU
-Hobbies: Collecting coins and military uniforms and field equipment
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: an easygoing personality
-Length of Service in Education: 2 years teaching and 2 years as T.A.

-Education: American University, Washington D.C.; Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Arts in Teaching; Played field hockey and lacrosse all four years on scholarship and was the graduate assistant coach while I obtained my Master’s Degree.
Certification: DA & DX
-Hobbies:  Spending time with my family and our 3 dogs, coaching (field hockey and lacrosse at the varsity level for over 10 years), traveling, boating (wakeboarding, water skiing), snow boarding, scuba diving and art.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I create a classroom environment that is accessible and engaging to all students, one that enhances student development and academic growth via the use of various technologies and real world applications.  I articulate and model high expectations for all students.  I believe all students can master a challenging curriculum.  I encourage students to be self -advocates and life long learners.
-Teaching experience: 15 years. 11 years in the Washington DC Metro Area (Montgomery County, Maryland) and 4 years in Michigan.

-Education:  I received my Bachelors Degree at Central Michigan University in Health Education and Recreation.  I also went to Eastern Michigan University to pick up an additional endorsement in Physical Education.  I obtained my Masters Degree in Education through Spring Arbor College. 
-Hobbies:  My husband and I have two children (boys 6 and 4) so many of my hobbies revolve around them. I love watching their baseball, t-ball, soccer, and lacrosse games. I also enjoy reading, working in my flower beds, walking, boating, swimming, eating and UM football & basketball. 
-Strengths I Bring to Skyline:  I love teaching Health and Physical Education.  I want kids to know they have have control and choice over the decisions they make.   So I feel my job is to help them discover and understand that how they choose to live now can alter their path to the future. 
-Years Teaching: 12 Years (8 years at Monroe Jefferson High School & Middle School) and 4 years in Ann Arbor at Huron High School

Education:  BA in art education and general education, MA in Education Leadership, both earned at EMU.
Hobbies: Cooking for friends and family, xcountry skiing, walking, hiking, exercise classes, camping, and sewing creative projects. 
Strengths: At Skyline, I hope to model a passion for learning.  I encourage the students I work with to appreciate themselves and their learning, while teaching strategies for comprehension and critical thinking. To Skyline HS, I bring a long history of working with a wide variety of students in different settings, and with varied styles of learning.
Academic interests:  With a belief that problem solving is at the core of all learning, I am researching and analyzing the connection between the creation of art and the process of learning.
Length of service:  As a retired teacher, I have experience in several districts teaching general education and art.  I concluded my teaching career as a fifth grade teacher in Manchester Community Schools.  Presently, I tutor and am designing a teacher-training program aligning art education and the core curriculum.  I began my work at Skyline Winter 2008.

-Education:  MBE (Masters of Business Education), Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI; BA Social Studies and Business Administration, LeMoyne-Owen College, Memphis, TN; Extended Coursework and Professional Development in leadership, curriculum, and technology from various learning institutions in Michigan, and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA.
-Hobbies:  Reading, Music, and Digital Gadgets
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:  I bring experience in Smaller Learning   Communities, Digital Learning Communities, Career and Technical Education, integrating technology into the curriculum using digital tools for 21st Century Learning, working as a team player, and a passion for education and the ability to work with all children.
-Length of Service in Education:  20+ years, which includes experience as an assistant principal, curriculum leader, and teacher.

-Education: University of Michigan, B.A. in Leadership and Business Administration from Concordia University, Masters in Organizational Leadership and Human Resource from Concordia University.
-Hobbies: Traveling, swimming, working out, and volunteering in the community.
-Strengths that I bring to Skyline are many: I have a number of certifications in school security, bullying, identifying  drug related issues with students, Homeland security for schools, conflict management/resolutions, cultural awareness training, and past military/policing experience.
-Length of Service in Education: I have been with the district starting 10 years this year, as a substitute long term teaching math, spanish,history and cooking and as a Community Assistant.

-Education- I have a BS from Eastern Michigan University in Elementary Education with a Math major and Group Sciences minor. I have an MAT from Madonna University in Learning Disabilities. I also have several additional classes of coursework in Autism Spectrum Disorders.
-Hobbies- I love to read, especially mysteries featuring forensic science. I also enjoy taking walks around the neighborhood with my husband and our two Chihuahuas, Gabby and Zena.
-Strengths- I bring experience as both a general education teacher and as a special education teacher. I have had experience in co-teaching as both a general and special education teacher. I am Reading Apprenticeship trained and have been using these strategies for teaching reading in content areas for three years. I also bring a strong background in building positive relationships with students, parents and staff.
-Service in Education- I started my career as a general education teacher at a charter school in Ypsilanti where I worked as a middle school math teacher and then as a 5th grade teacher. While I was finishing my degree in special education, I spent a year at Novi Middle School. During that year, I was a long term sub in 7th grade math and then completed my special education student teaching in a 7th grade Resource Room. I have spent the last four years as a Resource Room teacher in Howell.

-Education: Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Vocal Performance, University of Michigan 2002, Master of Music Education, University of Michigan 2007 -Hobbies: Music, Sailing, Skiing, Writing, hanging out with my family and friends including my husband and our two dogs. -Strength that I bring to Skyline: In addition to sharing the extensive musical training I've received throughout my life, I strive to bring professionalism into the field of vocal music for our young students. I value the importance of teaching many genres and styles of music to expose students to the richness of various musical cultures. I truly love vocal music and hope to instill a similar passion in my students. A philosophy I strive to live by is this; Character and professionalism are equal partners to talent and intelligence in any situation. -Academic Interests: Vocal and choral music, contemporary a cappella music, reading and writing about music education, art and culture, music history, music theory, and music theater. I also enjoy attending and presenting at professional music and education conferences. -Length of Service: After teaching vocal music at Henry Ford II High School in Utica for 5 years, I transfered to Skyline High School in 2008 and look forward to many more successful years here!

-Education:  University of Michigan, Ann Arbor:  MA in Secondary Education (Certification in French and Environmental Studies);  BA in French; BS in Environmental Policy & Behavior
-Hobbies:  I enjoy running, biking, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, hiking, camping, skiing, kayaking, live music/dancing, gardening, foreign films, meeting foreign people, reading, and traveling.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:  I love working with youth and have extensive experience in academics, athletics and extra-curricular activities in formal and informal settings.   I have a passion for foreign languages and cultures and love to share my favorite music, films and food with my students.  I promote travel and study abroad opportunities to my students and try to take advantage of local cultural activities.  I have studied French in Switzerland and France during high school/college and worked as an Environmental Educator for 3 years in Madagascar through Peace Corps.  I have traveled throughout Europe and Eastern Africa and hope to take my students to some of my favorite places.  In the summers I have worked with Putney Student Travel leading tours in Madagascar and recently working with Community Action Network, leading a summer youth employment program for at-risk youth.
-Length of Service in Education:  I officially began teaching in Ann Arbor last year at Huron, Tappan and Pioneer Schools, but I have been a substitute and student teacher in almost every school in Ann Arbor since 2006.  I have also taught in St. Clair, Marysville, Richmond, Wayne-Westland, and Dearborn Heights (long-term sub in French) and coached volleyball in some of these schools.

-Education:  MA in Education and MS in Geophysics, both from University of Michigan.
-Hobbies:  Hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, kayaking, gardening
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: My passion is supporting the personal and intellectual growth of young people through creative learning experiences. I am very interested in how people learn as revealed through physics education research.  I love the outdoors and love giving young people opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.  My 21 years in the computer industry and 5 years leading a nonprofit organization have given me a broad perspective on careers paths and why education is important.
-Length of service in education:  3 years at Kensington Woods High School in Howell, MI.

-Education:  Hope College  majors: Ancient Civilization/Studio Art; minor Latin
Millikin University major:  Secondary Ed. concentrations History/Political Science
-Masters in the works!
-Hobbies:  My daughter, Sewing for my business TwoStepStudio, Reading
-Career:  7th year in the district

-Education:  Bachelor's in English from Michigan State UNiversity and Masters and Teaching Certificate from Eastern Michigan University in Special Education, Emotional Impairments.
-Hobbies:  Playing/coaching soccer, scuba diving, being with friends and family, traveling
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:   I am very passionate about teaching and I love coming to work each day.  I hope to teach my students to be advocates for themselves and for them to find their own successes. 
-Length of Service in Education: 3 years

-Education: B.S. in History and Secondary Education from Vanderbilt University
-Hobbies: international travel, reading, photography, painting, tennis, gymnastics, snowboarding, and watching dance movies.  
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:  I believe everyone has something to say and something to learn.  I strive to help my students expand their cultural literacy and become analytical and thoughtful members of society. I love teaching social studies and hope that my passion for the material and commitment to student success enhances all that we do in the classroom.
-Length of service in Education: 5 years

-Education: I have a BA and MA from Eastern Michigan University
-Hobbies: In my spare time, I love hanging out with my wife and son.  I'm a huge traveller, a bit of an outdoorsman, and a lover of reading and the arts
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: Teaching has always been, at least for me, about generating the kind of passion I have for literature and creative writing to my students
-Length of Service in Education: After teaching English at Huron High School in Ann Arbor for the past nine years, I'm excited to join the Skyline staff

-Education: I am a third year Spanish teacher and also taught Italian for Wayne State University.  I am presently attaining my Ph.D. in Foreign Language Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Italian.  I received my Masters of Art in Teaching from Wayne State University with certifications in Italian, Spanish, and French.  Prior to attending Wayne State, I graduated with a Bachelors Degree from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where I studied international relations and business.
-Experience and hobbies: I have worked in several business positions prior to becoming a teacher.  Upon graduation from UofM, I moved to Manhattan, NY where I worked as a public relations executive for a pharmaceutical firm.  My many hobbies include running, yoga, rock climbing, music, and spending lots of time with my dogs Muffy (who understands Italian!) and Sneaky. 
I have also traveled quite extensively, and one of my most interesting trips was on a trade mission with my father to the Middle East (Dubai and Doha).  I have also been to China, France and Spain.  My favorite destination, however, is Italy, which I have visited on 10 occasions.  One such occasion was a study abroad, “Wayne in Aburzzo,” in Gagliano-Aterno where both of my great-grandparents once resided. 
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: A hard work ethic, dedication to students, and absolute love for all languages and cultures.  I specialize in authentic or “real-world” assessments through which I hope to bring joy and meaning to what students learn in Spanish to their everyday lives.

-Education:  Master of Business Administration (MBA), Webster University, St. Louis, MO; Master of Arts – Secondary Education (MAT), Wayne State University, Detroit, MI; Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), University of Michigan, Dearborn, MI
-Hobbies:  Travel, Golf, and Reading
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:  I have a strong background that encompasses both business and computers.  I have over 10 years experience in pre-sales support, systems development and implementation, project management and marketing.  I also bring my love of teaching, my creativity, a very strong work ethic and my dedication to assisting students to become productive citizens and life-long learners.
-Length of Service in Education:  4 years, Marketing and Business Teacher at St. Charles High School in Missouri; 2 years, Marketing and Business Teacher at Stevenson and Franklin High Schools in Livonia, MI.  

-Education:  Master of Arts in Education (MAT), U of M-Dearborn; Ph.D. in chemistry, Northwestern U; BS in biochemistry, Stony Brook U.
-Strengths: Past corporate research and development. Not only am I teaching science, I have lived the life of a scientist. Ever the experimentalist, inveterate tinkerer, never satisfied, I have explored alternative methods that go beyond a slide presentation or a traditional worksheet. In particular I am developing interactive online content through the use of my own MOODLE (Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment) site: http://jfinnan.com/shs/moodle.
-Length of Service in Education: I taught the past five years chemistry, AP chemistry and biology at Southfield High School and Lathrup High School. This is my first year at Skyline High School.
-Industrial Experience: Research and Development in vitamins and flavor and fragrances for 20 years with 15 patents.

-Education: B.A. in Classical Languages, University of California at Berkeley (GO BEARS!); M.A. in Classics, University of Michigan.
-Hobbies: I enjoy hiking, weightlifting, listening to music, computer gaming, traveling, annoying my students, and accidentally breaking stuff.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:  I have extensive experience teaching in a small community environment where emphasis is given to educating the whole student. I can communicate (with varying degrees of success) in ancient Greek, Latin, French, German, and Italian.
I believe that learning is a collaborative experience through which student and teacher can learn from one another.  I firmly believe that the only time we stop learning is when we die.  I love learning, and I love working with my students.
-Years in Education:  1 year at Bentley High School in California and 6 years at Roeper Middle and Upper School in Birmingham, MI  I've been at Skyline since the school opened its doors in 2008.  Go Eagles!

-Education: I attended my first 2 years of college at Oakland Community College where I prepared for a transfer to the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor.  I received a bachelor's degree in Athletic Training and Movement Science.  After discovering that my favorite part of my job was educating my patients and athletes, I returned to UofM to obtain my teacher's certification in Physical Education and Health.  I am currently working on a Master's degree in the Art of Education.  
-Hobbies: I enjoy listening to all types of music, singing, dancing, running, reading, traveling and spending time with friends and family.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:  My background as an athletic trainer has given me in-depth experiences and education related to my current content areas of PE and Health.  I feel I can introduce students to areas of interest they may have never thought to pursue before such as sports medicine, sports business, occupational and physical therapy.  I have a passion for not only my content areas but ensuring that all of our students have an opportunity to become successful in all aspects of their life.  I love to share what I have learned from my educational background and life experiences in hopes that it may help students make healthy decisions for themselves.   
-Length of Service in Education:  I have been working as a part of the Ann Arbor District for 3 years now, my first year as assistant athletic trainer at Pioneer High School and this will be my second year as a  teacher/athletic trainer at Skyline.  Before coming to Skyline, I taught 2 years at Robichaud Jr./Sr. High School.

-Education:  1990 M.A. Art Education/ University of Michigan Rackham School & The School of Art & Art History,  1985 B.A. (cum laude) Art K-12, English 9-12, University of Detroit-Mercy College,  1974-5 Fine Arts/ Center for Creative Studies-College of Art & Design,  1987-89 Vocal Music, Art History/ Oakland University, Rochester, MI. 1994 Summer/  Arrowmount School of Art, Gatlinburg, TN., 1997 Computer Tech./ Notre Dame, Cleveland, OH., 1984-5 Ceramics/ Oakland Community College-Orchard Ridge, Farmington Hills, MI.
-Hobbies:  Choir, Watercolor Painting, Drawing, Equestrian, Fashion.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:  I truly enjoy teaching, making & showing Art.  I like bringing insight to students per newfound Art abilities and supporting their confidence with them.
-Length of Service in Education: I began teaching Art right out of High School in 1972 at Civic Centers with Rec & Edu. (Southfield, Birmingham, Lake Orion, and Ann Arbor), The Cleveland Music School Settlement, Cleveland, Ohio, and The Fairmount Fine Arts Center, Novelty, Ohio, up until 1999. Since then I have been a teacher of the Visual Arts for: Birmingham, MI., Lake Orion, MI., The Dept. of Defense Dependents Schools (Torrejon AFB High School Madrid, Spain), and The Ann Arbor Public School (1999) districts.

-Education: MA in Education (University of Michigan) BA in Sociology (University of Michigan)
-Hobbies: I coach both the men's and women's water polo teams at Skyline, I love to travel, and spend time with friends and family
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I hope to serve as an energetic personality in which students can trust and feel comfortable and confident around. I strive to provide an environment in which students learn from different approaches and perspectives, and attempt to make history come alive in the classroom. 
-Length of service in Education: I have been teaching since 2008, all years within AAPS

-Education: I was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan. I attended Burns Park, Slauson, and graduated from Pioneer in 1994. I also attended the Residential College at the University of Michigan, where I graduated with a BA in English & Drama and my certification to teach secondary English and Spanish in 2000. I later earned my MA in Guidance/Counseling from EMU in 2007.
-Hobbies: Growing up, my hobbies included acting in plays and playing wheelchair basketball for the Ann Arbor Thunderbirds. During college, I played a lot of chess and I wrestled with the U of M Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Club. Now I enjoy swimming, working out, creative writing, reading, and watching TV and movies.
-Length of service in education: In 2000 I taught Performing Arts at Tappan. In 2001 I taught Spanish at Huron. Since then, I have worked as a records coordinator, para-educator and young adult counselor in Ypsilanti. This will be my first year at Skyline.
-Strengths: I have always connected extremely well with students, especially students trying to overcome the difficult challenges of their teenage years. I even wrote a novel based on my own struggles. Much of the book focuses on the difficulties of growing up with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and on finding the resilience to succeed in spite of them. I think resilience may be the most important quality that educators can foster in our students. No matter how smoothly things are going right now, there will be bumps in the road. Getting over those bumps in one piece and learning how best to handle them in the future are skills we can all work on. Teens need compassionate, consistent counselors who will help to guide them down the road. After all, they’re just starting to drive.

- Education: BBA (Computer Systems) and MS (Physical Geography) from Eastern Michigan University.  Secondary science certification: Earth Science (major), General Science (minor).
- Hobbies: I enjoy reading science fiction and mystery novels, and science magazines to keep me current with new discoveries.
- Strengths I bring to Skyline: I grew up in Ann Arbor and graduated from Huron High School.  I have lived in this community for most of my life. I believe that science is an essential part of a students education.  I feel that my enthusiasm for this subject helps to motivate students to both enjoy and excel in science.
- Length of Service in Education: After working in the business sector for years, I returned to school to become certified to teach science.  I began my teaching career in 1999, teaching one year in Allen Park.  In 2000 I began teaching in the Ann Arbor Public Schools.

-Education: Michigan Technological University: BS Biological Science Chemistry Minor; BS Business and Engineering Administration; Eastern Michigan University: Secondary Education Certification; MS General Science, Eastern Michigan University.
-Hobbies: Reading, Traveling, Gardening, Biking, walking/hiking, and a science workshop junkie.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: A love and enthusiasm of science and sharing this with students and peers. A great desire to learn about new trends in education and science, especially science education by taking workshops around the country and courses at universities and staying current in the latest topics in science. Experience working in the pharmaceutical industry. I love doing “hands on” science which means lots of labs and demos and taking my annual Halloween Chemistry Spooktacular to Skyline. Desire for all students to learn that science is something that is all around us and fun!
-Length of Service in Education: I have been teaching for 14 years in Ann Arbor.

-Education: BS from Eastern Michigan University with a major in Mathematics and a minor in Physical Education MA from Eastern Michigan University in Educational Technology
-Hobbies: I love photography and traveling.  I enjoy reading a good book and doing crossword and Sudoku puzzles. Spending quality time with my family is also very important to me.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I have a passion for teaching and I have an intense desire to help students achieve great things!
-Length of Service: Prior to coming to Skyline HS, I have taught 24 years, mostly at Clague MS and Pioneer HS.

-Education:  BS mathematics U of M, MA with certification U of M
-Hobbies: reading, cooking, driving cross country, wilderness, healing, art, topology, writing
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I am an eager and practicing student of the art of collaborative communities. I am confident that every person can learn algebra/geometry and I know that even if (a remote possibility) a person never uses the content, the learning itself will open new dimensions in thinking capacity. My chosen field is how people learn algebra/geometry and I learn from my students as they learn from me. I believe that learning, change and growth happen through the medium of relationship and that safety, belonging, respect and engagement are essential. I'll do what it takes to authentically teach mathematics and I don't give up on anyone.
-Length of Service in Education: 13 years

-Education:I graduated from the University of Michigan with a BS in Cellular Molecular Biology and completed my teaching certification work and earned a Masters of Education from Marygrove College.
-Hobbies: I enjoy watching action and science fiction movies.  Star Wars and Star Trek are my favorites.  I also love playing Sudoku, Chess, Boggle, Scrabble an a host of other board games.  One of my other favorite hobbies is cooking, especially grilling.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:I bring to Skyline a great passion for teaching and learning in creative and exciting ways.  I enjoy making lessons come to life, highlighting the practicality of the material I teach, and having students experience the concepts in tangible ways!  Being competitive, I strive for excellence and expect those around me to do the same.  I also bring to Skyline the experience of coordinating and writing integrated curriculum-based projects for language arts, science and math - thus making the curriculum come to life and providing real-world experience for students.
-Length of Service in Education:I have been teaching since 1992 beginning at Cass Technical High School for 18 years and then moving to Skyline High School in 2010.

-Education: BS Wayne State University

- Elementary Ed. K-8 all subjects Special Education CI K-12; M.Ed candidate Wayne State University Special Education EI/LD Highly qualified in English and Social Studies. -Hobbies: Music (amateur violinist), reading, cooking, sewing, visual arts

-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I consider myself an excellent team player who absolutely loves children, teaching and LEARNING!

-Length of Service in Education: I've been a teacher since age six, however, those years don't count toward my retirement. I have been employed in the state of Michigan as a teacher for more than twenty-four years. Having been a student of education for as many years, I have both seen and been a part of educational reform. Guiding each of my professional decisions has been my belief that all children can learn.

- Education: BS in Secondary Mathematics from University of Michigan, MA is Secondary Education from Eastern Michigan.
- Hobbies: I really enjoy golfing, riding my bike, cooking and watching television. I also enjoy playing with my two boys whom love to play soccer, baseball, foosball, lacrosse and football.
- Strengths I bring to Skyline: I enjoy working and helping students understand the concepts of all levels of mathematics. I enjoy using technology to take a different look at ideas and help students understand a deeper understanding.
- Length of Service in Education: I had been teaching for 10 years at Huron High School before coming to Skyline. I have taught all levels of mathematics courses. I have also been the lead teacher for online math instruction for the past 4 years.

- Education - B.A. with honors University of Michigan, double major of English and Philosophy
    M.A. Institute for Christian Studies, Toronto, Philosophical Aesthetics. Thesis title: "Instructive Ambiguities: Bertolt Brecht and Heiner Müller's experiments with Lehrstücke."
    Ph.D. (A.B.D.) Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam / Institute for Christian Studies, Toronto, Philosophical Aesthetics.
- Hobbies - I am an award winning playwright though currently I mostly publish fiction and the occasional article. I like ghost stories, difficult thoughts, organic gardening and Peace and Justice.
- Strengths I bring to Skyline - The primary strength I bring to Skyline is that I am a technologist who does not believe that technology can ultimately resolve the enduring problems of human society. I see past the gizmos and the "gee-whiz" effect of new toys. A good teacher can instruct using a stick to scratch in the dirt. My job is to make 21st C technology feel as natural as that stick.
-Length of Service in Education: I have served the Ann Arbor Public Schools for 10 years providing technical support. Previously, I designed and taught adult education courses in Toronto and at the University of Toronto.

-Education: Bachelor of Science-Nursing, University of Massachusetts-Boston,  Masters of Public Health, University of Michigan
-Hobbies: Reading, Exploring different approaches to health and illness, Gardening, Spending time with family and friends
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I have a range of experience, in a variety of health delivery/maintenance areas: hospital, doctor’s office, camp, working with migrant farm worker teens, and teaching nursing students.  I am excited to be a part of the Skyline community.  I am committed to working with parents and educators to help prepare all students to succeed at school.
-Length of Service in Education: 20+ years

-Education: B.A. in English w/teacher certification in English/Social Sciences, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor; M.Ed. in School Counseling, Wayne State University; National Board Certified Teacher
-Hobbies: Power naps and anything that allows for relaxation; spending time with husband and daughter; running; reading; perusing fashion magazines; shopping for jaw-dropping deals
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I genuinely want to know my students and to make connections.  I recognize kids as individuals with varying talents, skills, and needs.  I prepare students for the 21st century to be productive and responsible, to think, and to CARE!
-Length of Service in Education: 15 years in education, last 9 years spent in Guidance Counseling

-Education: Masters of Education in School Counseling from Bowling Green State University.
-Hobbies: Soccer, softball, power tool projects, art, music and political activism.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: Humor and patience.
-Length of Service in Education: 8 years in the schools, 10 years in Boys and Girls Clubs and non-profit youth organizations.

-Education:  BA in Teaching of History, University of Illinois at Chicago.
-Hobbies:  Traveling, camping, reading, playing guitar, and spending time with my family and friends.
-Strengths I Bring to Skyline- I bring a strong passion for teaching and learning.  I strive to ensure meaningful learning for every student I have the pleasure of teaching.  I bring experience teaching in a diverse urban environment where a positive attitude and a sense of humor are keys to motivating student learning.  I also bring a commitment to connecting the social sciences to my students’ lives, and providing them with opportunities to realize the power that they have to affect positive change.
-Years of Service in Education:  2 years teaching high school social studies in Chicago, Illinois

Education:  B.A. Psychology, Michigan State University, Ed.S. Loyola University of Chicago
Hobbies:  I love sports of all kinds. I enjoy playing and coaching Ice Hockey, travel, and spending time with friends and family
Strengths:  A strong belief that all students can learn and a willingness to find the best solution for each student and situation.  I have experience working with students individually and in groups and use skills to provide consultation, evaluation, intervention, and prevention in the school environment. 
Length of Service:  Four years.  Also, I am a product of the Ann Arbor Public Schools.  I attended Abbot Elementary, Forsythe Middle School, and Pioneer High School as a student. 

-Education: BA Economics; University of Michigan Major: Economics; Ed. Certification Mathematics; University of   
 Michigan; MA Mathematics; Eastern Michigan University 
-Hobbies: I am a huge hockey fan. I wish I could golf, I like to ride my 10 speed.  I read voraciously.
- Fun experiences: backed the Wonderland Trail, ran a marathon, canoed Algonquain North Ontario,
  enjoyed playing hockey for 48 years.
-Strengths: I love teaching. I am very motivated to help all students to successfully learn math. I am very patient. 
-Length of Service: I am beginning my 36 year as a math teacher, 9 years at Clague MS/JHS, 18 years at Huron HS  
  and 5 years at Community HS and the rest at Skyline. I also worked two years for the General Foods Corporation.

-Education: B.S. – Eastern Michigan University (Mathematics Major, Earth Science Minor)
-Hobbies: running, fishing, hunting and other outdoor activities
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I am very organized, motivated and hard working.  I look forward to passing on my enthusiasm for math to my students.
-Length of Service in Education: 1 year with Ann Arbor Public Schools (Huron High School, Pioneer High School)

-Education: BS Physics, Secondary Education; North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, M.Ed. Elementary education w/ middle school endorsement; University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
-Hobbies: Performing arts: singing and songwriting, acting and dance. Listening to jazz ( live and recorded), fitness, healthy cooking, reading, travel, and living an organic lifestyle.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I bring creativity and an enthusiasm and love for life long learning to Skyline. Science is a real part of our everyday lives and should be taught with that in mind. My goal is for each of my students to leave my charge equipped with skills and knowledge to think critically and solve problems so they may be productive citizens.
-Length of Service in Education: 3 years Levey Middle School (science and drama) in Southfield, 9 years in Detroit Public Schools grades 8-12 science, Chemistry, dance, and drama)

-Education: Bachelors, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Concentration in Mathematics and Kinesiology, Student of the School of Education and Division of Kinesiology. I completed my student teaching at Ann Arbor Pioneer High School and Chappelle Elementary.
-Hobbies:  Football, Music, Screen Printing and Sports Agent work.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:  I bring the extraordinary skill set of advising, mentoring, guiding, implementing creativity and innovative ideas, and the ability to foster relationships. I had the honor of sharpening these skills as an advisor at the University of Michigan, as a High School teacher in Inkster, MI and as the Outreach Manger for Young and Educated Services of Detroit, MI. Furthermore, I am a founding member of two community serving organizations in Ann Arbor, MI – Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc, Delta Rho Chapter and The Enspired Group.
-Length of Service in Education:  8+ years, this includes experience as an Advisor for incoming freshmen for the Comprehensive Studies Program (CSP) at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor.

-Education: MS in Technology Education from Eastern Michigan University and a BA in Industrial Education and Theatre from Central Michigan University. Technology & Design Certification, K-12, from Eastern Michigan University.
-Hobbies: The Pachera family; Tom, Amy, Nicholas (age 9) and Zachary (age 7) make their home in the Skyline attendance area, and love being a part of the Ann Arbor community. During the summer months he owns and operates, Pachera Construction, a small construction company specializing in decks.  Mr. Pachera is active in the community through Huron Valley Habitat for Humanity where he serves as Zion Lutheran Church’s representative for the Thrivent Build's House sponsor group.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: Technical and hands on skill, communication and relations to our youth; each of which is equally important in Design Technology. I teach Design Technology because students can use all of what the learn in their academic classes to do real world problem solving.
-Length of Service: Mr. Pachera has taught Technology Education for Eighteen Years, Skyline last year, tenyears prior at Forsythe and the first seven at Parcells Middle School in Grosse Pointe. He currently teaches CAD I,II, & III, IED(A) & (B), and POE(A) & (B) courses as well as serving as an Adjunct Professor at EMU.  Mr. Pachera utilizes his Theatre Education and experience as Skyline’s Theatre Manager.

-Education: MS in Urban Planning, MS in Education Speech & Language Pathology and BA in Psychology, Speech & Hearing Sciences all from the University of Michigan
-Hobbies: Sports - playing & watching, Golf, biking, knitting, reading and keeping up with my 3 sons!
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I have a wealth of experience helping students succeed academically and discover their own strengths.  I also bring a great enthusiasm for teaching, learning and helping students, parents and teachers understand the connection between language skills and lifelong learning.  My career has provided many opportunities to develop creative educational programming which I hope to share as well.
-Length of service in Education: I've been a practicing SLP since 1988, working with adults and children in the clinical and school settings in Ann Arbor, Detroit and Oak Park, MI.  I have also provided clinical training and participated in educational research at University of Michigan and Wayne State University. This is my first experience working with high schoolers and I find it incredibly invigorating!

-Education: Bachelor's & teaching certificate from U-M.
-Hobbies: Playing with my sons, DJing on a local radio station, making music, reading.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: Sincerity, creativity, a love of ideas & a belief that they can change the world for the better.
-Length of service in Education: I've been teaching since 1997.

-Education:  B.S., Packaging, Michigan State University; M.B.A., University of Detroit; Secondary Education Certificate, Math Major and Psychology Minor, Eastern Michigan University.
-Hobbies:  Spending time with family and friends, reading, running and indoor soccer.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:  A love for learning and working with students.  I draw on my previous work experience as a packaging engineer in the automotive industry to relate relevant math topics to industry.  The computer, hands on and small group activities are used in my classroom to explore and reinforce math concepts.  I am looking forward to being a part of the Skyline -team!
-Length of Service in Education: Part-time faculty at Washtenaw Community College for two semesters, and teaching at Pioneer High School for one semester.

-Education:  BS from Eastern Michigan University in Special Education (EI) and History, received "Highly Qualified" accreditation in 2008 in English and Social Studies.  MA (expected 2012) from Eastern Michigan University in Reading Intervention.   
-Hobbies:  I love art--both creating and appreciating--especially making jewelry and sculptures out of found objects.  I consider food to be an artistic medium, too; I thoroughly enjoy both cooking and eating.   I also love anything that involves being outdoors; camping, hiking, biking, and just walking around town people-watching.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I am creative and patient, and believe in encouraging students to embrace their individuality, as well as accepting and embracing others' individuality.  I value building relationships with students, families, and staff, and truly believe "it takes a village."
-Length of service in Education: I began teaching at the school formerly known as Stone High School in 2008, and transferred to Skyline in 2011.

-Education: Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI (April 2011); MA in Reading, Eastern Michigan, Ypsilanti,MI; BS major:English, Language and Literature/ Secondary Education, minor: Art Education.
-Hobbies: reading mystery and crime novels, music, spending time with my family and traveling
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I bring deep knowledge of adolescent literacy across content areas. I have extensive training in Reading Apprenticeship and have facilitated professional development for many teachers across Washtenaw County. I am also skilled in integrating technology into the curriculum. Furthermore, I work as a team player and believe in the power of collaboration. My strong belief that all students can learn drives me to continue to be an advocate for the best interest of all students.
-Length of Service in Education: 12 years

-Education: BA in Organizational Communication from Purdue University, 1996; MA in secondary education with an endorsement in history and sociology from the University of Michigan, 2001
-Hobbies: Just about any outdoor activity, traveling, especially to foreign lands, learning about different cultures
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I bring an energetic and passionate approach to telling the "story of history." I believe that history is not a collection of facts, dates and figures, rather it is a story that can be told from many perspectives. I strive to teach my students to question the world they live in and think critically about the history they learn, witness and participate in. Students will also find that I am very approachable and am genuinely interested in them as individuals, not just members of my class. I will go out of my way to help them any practical way whether it's with my class or otherwise. 
-Length of service in education: 10 years, 9 in Ann Arbor, where I was born and raised.

-Education:  Assoc. Degree from WCC   Eastern michigan (almost complete) in Physical Ed./ health minor
-Hobbies:  Baking, bowling, reading, music, and travel. Sports has its own category because I live and breathe Maize and Blue!!!!
-Strengths:  I have a passion for working with kids in all facets.  I enjoy coaching and working with our students in the POHI classroom.  I bring a
compassionate and humorous approach to learning that seems to work very well for my personality.  I want to leave a positive imprint on those that I connect with at Skyline.
-Length of Service in Education:  2 years of Substitute Teaching in Ann Arbor.  3 years of coaching at Forsythe, Pioneer, and Skyline.  5 years of assistant teaching with POHI.

-Education: M.A. in School Counseling from the University of Detroit Mercy, K-12 Endorsement and LLPC; B.S. in Secondary Education from Eastern Michigan University, 6-12 Biology and Chemistry Endorsements.
-Hobbies: I enjoy camping, dancing, and spending time with my family.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: I am compassionate, caring, dedicated, innovative, and involved.  I have had a great deal of experience organizing and leading groups in various settings.  I have also had much experience with event planning.  I was the senior class moderator for 8 years at my last school and was responsible for planning and
implementing events such as graduation, prom, and powderpuff football.
-Length of Service in Education: 10 years in schools; This is my 2nd year at Skyline.  Prior to counseling students at Skyline, I taught Science at Regina high school for 7 1/2 years.  I began my career in education as a substitute teacher in Northville and Plymouth/Canton.  I was also a camp director for 7 years. 

-Education: Bachelors in Energy Management, and B.S. in Biology, both from Eastern Michigan. Masters in the Art of Teaching.
-Hobbies: Organic gardening, bee keeper, kayaking.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: Native Ann Arborite who loves education, with a desire to keep the state healthy and students thinking critically about their environment. 
-Length of service in education: I taught environmental education at Leslie Science Center for 5 years and Honey Creek Community School for 6 years. I taught Life Science and Earth Science at Slauson Middle School for 10 years.

-Education:  M.A. Learning Disabilities, University of Detroit, B.A. Special Education Emotionally Impaired, Minors:  Psychology, Children's Literature and Dance., Eastern Michigan University
-Hobbies:  Photography and Kayaking
-Strengths:  Enthusiasm for the education and the creative process; natural team player; interest and experience in culturally diverse pedagogy
-Years in Education: 26 years  including clinical, private and public education settings.

-Education: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from the University of Michigan, Secondary Education Certification in English and Dance, Masters in Education forthcoming, DePaul University
-Hobbies: Dancing in professional jazz dance company, teaching hip-hop at Dance Alliance, reading Gothic novels, cheering on the Bears during football season, and playing with my toddler, Franklin, at home.
-Strengths I Bring to Skyline: Enthusiasm, energy, and a love of reading and education.
-Length of Service in Education: Eight years teaching English at Pioneer High School, and almost twenty years teaching dance.

-Education: Huron High and I attended WCC.
-Hobbies:  I have horses that I enjoy trail riding with my family, and mucking their stalls every weekend. It’s awesome having the summers with my children.  We go camping up north in our pop-up camper and hang out at the beach.  Last but not least running and lifting weights!!!!
- Strengths:  I am a no nonsense kind of gal.  I am always very truthful and straightforward. I enjoy empowering the young adults I work with and help them be as independent as possible.
-Length of service in Education: 20 years.

Education: BSW from Eastern Michigan University, MSW from University of Michigan
Hobbies: Spending time with my family and traveling.
Strengths I bring to Skyline: A heart full of compassion, a listening ear, and a connection to community resources.
Length of Service in Education: 12 years

-Education:  B.S. in Journalism from Eastern Michigan University.  Masters in Arts and Teaching from Wayne State University.
-Hobbies: I enjoy and cherish spending time with my son.  I love reading.  I do not have a favorite genre, but I try to keep up with most trends in Adolescent Literature.
-Strengths I bring to Skyline:  I love teaching and learning.  My strengthens include getting teens to see the connections between themselves and the characters they encounter in literature.  I have also been very successful with getting reluctant readers to discover the joy in reading a great book.
-Length of Service in Education:  10 years.  I spent a year and a half in Detroit Public Schools and I taught at Roberto Clemente Student Development Center for eight years.

-Education: Undergrad (B.A. in English and Poetry) and teacher certification program at University of Michigan.  Master's Degree in Education from Marygrove College
-Hobbies: I am an avid rollerskater and derby girl. I recently coached the second wave of the Ann Arbor Derby Dimes, I like adventure races, off road triathlons and trail running. I also am a huge fan of my new addition to my family: Felix. . .which is a good thing, since he occupies most of my free time :)
-Strengths I bring to Skyline: A solid grounding in literature and the teaching of English, a sense of humor, an interest in the creative potential of our students, a belief that *something* is important to each of us; it's my job to recognize and connect with that important thing
-Length of Service in Education: Years of Service in District is 12, overall years in Education is 16.