As a little girl, I dreamed of being a teacher just like the ones I was admiring. It seemed like being a teacher would be a great way to help everyone in the world learn to read, write and "be smart". I followed my dream and learned that being a great teacher means seeing the potential in everyone and helping them find their passion and gifts. I love watching my young friends learn at school and have their own "aha moments" that create big dreams for their lives. I am passionate about finding opportunities to teach students, their families and the staff that anything is possible with focus, effort and vision. It is very important to me that we teach our students that college or technical training is something that is possible for them. Finally, we spend a lot of time talking about character and citizenship so that we are developing strong youth that have the ability to lead others in the future! I love what I do and am so grateful for the teachers in my past that modeled these core ideas and values for me. I teach and lead with the knowledge and heart that every child that walks through our doors can succeed!
On a personal note, I was born and raised in California where the ocean is as near as the mountains and diversity abounds in every way. Interestingly, when I moved to Nebraska, I felt as if I had come home to a world that I understood equally well. Growing up, I was influenced by my grandparents who were originally from North Dakota, Iowa and Missouri. The lessons I learned from them about honesty, hard work, family and faith made my move to Lincoln many years ago easy. I'm proud to call Lincoln, Nebraska my home. I love everything about our city: the people, the culture, the activities, the educational opportunities and of course, the Huskers!
I am married to Brian Hale, a wonderful husband, father and grandpa. We have five children, lovely daughter-in-laws and 11 grandchildren. We enjoy our big garden, traveling to new places and spending time with our family here in Lincoln and in California. My husband and I love baseball. We have a bucket list wish to get to all of the MLB ball parks in the nation. So far we have been to 18 of the 30 parks; with a few of them multiply times to cheer on our favorite teams.