With over two decades of teaching experience and a background as a fifth grade teacher for 5 years, I bring a wealth of practical classroom insights and a passion for developing comprehensive etiquette education. My journey has been dedicated to enhancing students' social skills, confidence, and readiness for the future, through thoughtfully designed curriculum that bridges traditional values with modern-day necessities.
My teaching style is a vibrant tapestry of methodologies designed to engage all learning styles. Through a mix of reading, hands-on activities, role-playing, engaging discussions, thought-provoking questions, drawing, and writing, I strive to create an immersive learning experience. My aim is to not only teach but to inspire curiosity, empathy, and a deep understanding of etiquette's role in personal and professional success. Each lesson is crafted to ensure that every student can find a connection, be it auditory, visual, kinesthetic, or interpersonal, making learning both accessible and enjoyable for diverse learners.
I am honored to have received several accolades and recognitions throughout my educational and professional journey. Graduating summa cum laude, I was also distinguished as Student of the Year, acknowledging my dedication and academic excellence. My commitment to effective teaching methodologies led me to teach Kagan strategies to my fellow teachers, further solidifying my expertise as I am certified in Kagan learning methodologies. Consistently achieving Dean's List status, my efforts and achievements have not only been recognized academically but also featured in the news, highlighting my contributions to education and the broader community.
Bachelor's Degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), graduated Summa Cum Laude. This achievement not only reflects my dedication to academic excellence but also my deep understanding of the subjects I studied, laying a strong foundation for my teaching philosophy and methods. Certified Etiquette Consultant, International Protocol Academy (IPA) College. This certification underscores my specialized training and expertise in etiquette consulting, equipping me with the knowledge and skills to develop comprehensive etiquette curriculums and teach essential social skills for the 21st century.
Before founding Poised & Proper, my journey was rich and varied, marked by experiences that have uniquely shaped my approach to etiquette education. I began my career in the public eye as a model and participated in pageants, achieving titles such as Miss Fort Lauderdale and Miss Las Vegas. These experiences honed my poise, presentation skills, and the importance of carrying oneself with dignity and grace in various settings. For over 13 years, I delved into the world of hospitality and customer service, dealing blackjack in Las Vegas. This period not only refined my interpersonal skills but also provided me with invaluable insights into human behavior and the significance of effective communication in building positive interactions. Transitioning to education, I spent more than five years teaching fifth grade, where I discovered my passion for shaping young minds. It was during this time that I recognized the gap in traditional education systems regarding life skills and social etiquette. Motivated by the clear need for these essential skills in both personal and professional realms, I founded Poised & Proper. Each step of my journey, from the pageant stage to the classroom, has contributed to my deep understanding of the nuances of etiquette and its vital role in today’s world. Poised & Proper is the culmination of my diverse experiences, dedicated to equipping individuals of all ages with the tools to navigate life with confidence, empathy, and propriety.