I have been teaching for 55 years, and it has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. I graduated from Concordia in Seward, Nebraska, which prepared me well for a long and joyful career in education.

My inspiration to become a teacher came from my parents and from the wonderful teachers I had at Our Redeemer Lutheran School in Houston, Texas. Their encouragement and example shaped my desire to serve children and families through teaching.

One of the things I love most about teaching is seeing the joy on a student’s face when they complete an assignment well. That moment of pride and accomplishment never gets old. My favorite Bible verse is John 3:16, :For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life,” – a daily reminder of God’s incredible love.

The main life lesson I strive to teach my students is simple and foundational: Jesus loves you!! Everything else we learn builds on that truth.

Outside of school, I enjoy hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time with my grandkids. I also love looking up at the night skies and seeing the wonders God has placed there for us to admire.

What I appreciate most about being part of this school community is witnessing the daily work of the staff and teachers at ORLS—and the joy they bring to it. Yes, the work can be tough at times, but they continue faithfully with the tasks the Lord Jesus has given them to do. It’s a blessing to be part of such a committed and joy-filled community.