I have completed Early Childhood Courses, Introduction to the Child Care Profession, Skills and Strategies for Child Care Teacher and received my Infant/Toddler Credential in 2006. I am currently pursuing my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Edcation.

I have bee an Infant/Toddler Teacher for the past 4 years and I am currently a teacher in the Prescolar Classroom. My special educational interests include literacy and signing. I have been communicating with sign language my whole life. I am the librarian for Northern Door Children's Center.

I am married to Dale Merkle and we have two children, Amanda and Will. I enjoy reading, listening to music, and spending time with my family.