I grew up in a family of 6 kids in Stockbridge, Michigan.  I earned my Bachelor's and Master's degrees at Eastern Michigan University, and I've been teaching fourth grade at Milan Area Schools since 1985.  I live in Milan with my wife, Teresa, my children, Tyler and Blake, and our Shih Tzu, Zoe.  Tyler lives in Chicago and will attend Northwestern to become a PA.    Blake works in retail as a manager.    In my spare time, I enjoy photography, video editing, reading, and spending time with family and friends.  My two favorite parts of teaching are reading aloud and celebrating the many successes of former students.  Items on my bucket list include traveling to Hawaii and Australia, installing a Murphy Bed in my home, growing my own grapes and raspberries, and giving away a car to someone who really needs it. I was inspired to be a teacher by my fifth grade teacher, Marilyn Potter, and my high school guidance counselor, Mr. Hicks.  It's my goal to inspire my students the way that they inspired me.  Fun Fact ~ I was a contestant on Wheel Of Fortune's Teacher Week and won $5,000.