I am a lifetime resident of Gardner. I was raised by two of the most loving and hardworking parents on a ranch, where my parents still live and continue to ranch today. My parents have been involved in the community their entire life. My father retired from a local oil and gas company called ARCO at the time. My mother worked at the Gardner School and helped with a bilingual program. Like my mother, I too had a passion for education.  Following my roots and love for the Gardner community, my involvement in education began 25 years ago when I returned to my former school and was hired as a paraprofessional. I worked full-time at teaching and coordinating technology. I continued my education and attended Adams State College part-time to obtain my bachelor's degree in elementary education. After being a classroom teacher for 20 years, I am now in my 2nd year of being a Head of School of the new Gardner Valley School.  My family and I reside in the Gardner area and continue the ranching tradition.  My amazing husband and I are proud parents of two incredible boys. We look forward to always calling this beautifully unique and rural area our home. Gardner Valley School is the heart of the community and is more like a second home to many students, and I am honored to be part of such a fantastic staff and community.