I have been part of the Ivywood community since its opening in 2019, initially serving as the Director of Operations and Office Manager before stepping into my current leadership role. As Head of School, I am committed to fostering a culture rooted in classical education, character development, and academic excellence. I am passionate about equipping the next generation with the tools to think deeply, live virtuously, and lead with purpose—values I believe are at the heart of a true classical education.

Before entering school leadership, I taught English to students in China, homeschooled my children, and served as a drill instructor at a juvenile corrections boot camp— experiences that have shaped my dynamic and disciplined approach to education. My experiences and background allow me to connect with students, staff, and families in meaningful ways.

In my free time, I enjoy reading Great Books, spending time with my family, and coaching the Ivywood Classical Academy Marksmanship team. I am a proud mother to three Ivywood scholars. I live in Livonia with my husband and children.

I am the Lower School Assistant Principal with an Associate’s in Criminal Justice, a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and a Master of Arts in Classical Education. I love the Ivywood community!  It’s clear we share a commitment to providing students with a deep understanding of the world and the tools to live virtuously.

Classical education is especially meaningful to me because it nurtures the whole student, regardless of their abilities. I particularly enjoy exploring history and literature through our curriculum—history was a favorite subject of mine growing up, and I love sharing that passion with students. Some of my favorite books we read in literature class are childhood classics that continue to inspire.

In my free time, I enjoy reading classical literature—especially works by G.A. Henty, Jane Austen, and Alexandre Dumas—spending time in nature through walks, hikes, and biking, and learning the art of bookbinding.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. What I love most about Ivywood is our commitment to forming moral and intellectual leaders. Classical education resonates with me because it educates the whole person, shaping both character and mind.

My favorite part of the curriculum is the books we read—rich, challenging, and deeply meaningful. I look forward to seeing our community continue to grow together in pursuit of our mission.

I have a wonderful wife and four daughters, and I enjoy tending to my garden in my free time.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering from the University of Michigan. I love the Ivywood community and the way our staff fosters well-rounded individuals, ascribes value to each student, and honors each mind.

What excites me most about classical education is its intentional approach to character development and the way math, science, literature, and the arts are woven together into a beautiful symphony of learning. My favorite parts of the curriculum are the sciences and the arts.

I look forward to seeing students launch confidently into the next chapter of their lives.

My husband and I have four lively children who currently attend the Lower School. In my spare time, you’ll find me tinkering—building forts, fixing toys, or creating with Legos—racing my husband to use the lawnmower or snowblower, playing board games, singing and dancing with my family, or cooking up a new concoction. I have lived in two countries.

I am the Literacy Coach for grades K–6 at Ivywood, and what I love most is our culture of growth, where teachers are committed to lifelong learning and continually improving their practice.

I value classical education because of its depth and beauty—it’s incredibly rewarding to watch students make connections across subjects and develop a love for learning. I especially enjoy exploring children’s literature with my students.

I look forward to the day when all K–12 students are together in the same building. My husband and I live in Plymouth and enjoy paddle boarding, spending time outdoors, and being with our families.

I am a Kindergarten teacher at Ivywood, holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with Early Childhood and Mathematics endorsements from Eastern Michigan University, as well as a Master’s Degree in the Art of Teaching Reading from Marygrove College.

From Ivywood’s very beginning, I have felt that this school is not just a place to learn—it’s a community. I love the eagerness my students bring to school each day, the support and involvement of parents, and the amazing colleagues I am fortunate to work alongside.

Classical education allows me to teach the whole child, not just concepts, enriching lives while shaping minds through a virtuous education. I especially enjoy sharing literature stories with my students and presenting history in chronological order, which sparks rich discussions even at this early age.

I look forward to seeing my very first kindergarten class graduate as Ivywood grows into a full K–12 school. Outside the classroom, I live in Livonia with my husband and two sons, Colin and Carter, along with our two cats. I enjoy running and staying active, and I have been teaching for 20 years.

I teach 1st grade at Ivywood, and what I love most is our curriculum, mission, and the strong community we’ve built together.

I value classical education because it nurtures the whole child while encouraging curiosity and exploration of the world. I especially enjoy teaching literacy—helping students read and write through the Literacy Essentials curriculum is a true passion of mine.

I look forward to contributing to our growing community and supporting our students’ growth. I live in downtown Plymouth with my husband and six children, and we love exploring all that Michigan has to offer. This is my seventh year teaching at Ivywood.

I teach 1st grade at Ivywood, and what I love most is seeing the excitement in my students as they engage with our curriculum.

I value classical education because it nurtures the whole child, teaching through literature, deep exploration of language, historical events, and science concepts, while encouraging students to understand themselves. I especially enjoy teaching math, literacy, and history.

I look forward to the Ski and Golf club seasons each year!

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a major in Mathematics. I have a family of five and enjoy spending time outdoors—skiing, golfing, camping, swimming, and being with family and friends. I also enjoy gardening and home projects. We have a pet turtle named Dino.

I teach 2nd grade at Ivywood, and what I love most is that our school community feels like a family. Parents and educators work together as a team to support our scholars, who bring such a strong love of learning to the classroom.

I value classical education because it focuses on the whole child, promoting virtues and character development while providing a strong foundation in critical thinking and reasoning. I especially enjoy our literature curriculum and sharing classical stories with my students.

I look forward to seeing Ivywood continue to grow and expand in extracurricular opportunities. Both of my children attend Ivywood (2nd and 4th grades), and we enjoy swimming, nature walks, arts and crafts, reading, and playing with our Bernedoodle, Biscuit! I grew up in a family of educators and am entering my 14th year of teaching.

I hold a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood and Reading.

I teach 2nd grade at Ivywood, and what I love most is how our virtues are integrated into our classical curriculum.

I value classical education because it sparks wonder and curiosity, making history and literature come alive through storytelling and exploration of Western traditions.

I look forward to seeing everyone’s smiling faces and being part of our established, close-knit school community. I have two children who attend Ivywood, and in my free time I enjoy playing piano, traveling, cooking, sitting by campfires, and playing games with friends.

I teach 3rd grade at Ivywood, where I love the richness of the curriculum and the opportunity to tailor instruction to meet my students’ needs. My favorite part of teaching is the daily conversations with students—sharing ideas and watching them grow as thinkers. I especially enjoy teaching literature, history, and geography, where students gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.

One of the greatest joys of my career is seeing the strides my former students make and how they continue to contribute to Ivywood’s success.

I hold a B.S. in Sociology from Northern Michigan University, a Master’s in Humanities from Central Michigan University, and an Education Degree in K–8 self-contained classrooms from Madonna University.

Outside the classroom, I’ve been happily married to my wife, Lorrie, for 25 years, and we have one daughter, Olivia, who is a senior at Central Michigan University studying accounting. As a family, we enjoy long bike rides and traveling. Personally, I’m an avid reader, a gardener, and a lifelong sports fan—especially of our hometown Lions.

I teach 3rd grade at Ivywood, and what I love most is being part of a community of supportive staff, dedicated families, and amazing students. Every day, I get to help scholars cultivate critical thinking, develop intellectual virtues, and foster a lifelong love of learning.

Classical education excites me because it gives students the tools to learn deeply, solve problems creatively, and adapt thoughtfully, preparing them to think well and communicate effectively in any field. I especially enjoy Ivywood’s curriculum for its strong foundation in language, logic, and rhetoric, and the way subjects are interconnected across history, literature, and the arts.

I look forward to seeing Ivywood continue to grow, from our new upper school building to the high school experiences ahead, and to helping students develop independence, critical thinking, and character.

Outside of school, I’m happily engaged to my fiancé, Travis, and we have three children—Katie (21), Charlie (19), and Allie (14)—along with a lively menagerie of pets. The smiling faces of our scholars always make my day, so stop by to say hi!

I teach 3rd grade at Ivywood, and what I love most is that our classical, virtue-driven education emphasizes literature, the arts, and proven teaching methods while nurturing the whole child.

I appreciate classical education because it aligns with how children naturally learn. I enjoy exploring the world through math and science, investigating the past through history, and introducing students to classical literature, music, and art. I also love how the curriculum builds on prior knowledge and lays a strong foundation for future learning.

I look forward to watching my students grow from year to year and seeing the school community thrive as we expand into a new building and develop new programs.

I hold a Master of Arts in Education in Elementary Education with dual majors in Mathematics and Integrated Science and a minor in Social Studies. Outside of school, I enjoy watching my children play sports, camping, hiking, biking, sitting around campfires, stargazing, and spending time outdoors. I feel privileged that my four children attend Ivywood and benefit from such an amazing school.

I teach 4th grade at Ivywood, and what I love most is our commitment to an academically rigorous and rich education, as well as the students and families who make this work so rewarding.

I value classical education because it focuses on developing the whole, virtuous student. I especially enjoy teaching literature and seeing the wonder in students as we explore new stories and curriculum.

I’m excited to begin my second year at Ivywood and continue growing as an educator. At home, I live in Birmingham with my husband. I enjoy reading literary fiction and playing pickleball. I graduated from Elon University with a degree in English and previously worked for Young Life College at the University of Michigan.

I teach 4th grade at Ivywood, and what I love most about our school is its extraordinary community. I feel supported every day by parents, administration, and colleagues, which makes teaching here a true joy.

I value classical education because it educates the whole scholar—developing well-rounded, enlightened individuals, not just preparing them for a career. My favorite part of the curriculum is seeing how subjects connect: studying the American Revolution in History while reading Johnny Tremain in Literature, memorizing Paul Revere’s Ride in Poetry, and creating American Revolution theater boxes in Art brings learning to life for our students.

I look forward to watching Ivywood continue to grow, with more clubs, societies, and teams enriching our community. Outside the classroom, I enjoy skiing, hiking, and boating with my husband and three sons. I also love running, cooking, baking sourdough, and reading historical fiction. Go Eagles!

I teach 5th grade at Ivywood, and hold a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. What I love most is the strong sense of community—from students and parents to teachers and staff. It’s a happy, supportive environment that makes me look forward to coming to school each day.

I value classical education because it teaches the whole child, fostering lifelong learners who ask meaningful questions and cultivate curiosity. While I enjoy all aspects of the curriculum, I especially love teaching literature and math.

Watching our school grow has been incredible. I’m excited for all the “firsts” happening at the new campus and the years ahead as we continue developing a K–12 community.

At home, my husband Bryan and I have three teenagers—Cole (18), Brody (16), and Molly (14)—and our sweet boxer, Winnie. I enjoy reading, particularly historical fiction, and I’m always looking for a great new book. Go Eagles!

I teach 5th grade at Ivywood, and what I love most is my students’ willingness to learn. I value classical education because it allows me to teach the whole student, nurturing their growth as individuals while fostering curiosity and wonder through literature and math.

I look forward to building personal relationships with my students and their families.

I hold a degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Michigan University. I’ve been married for one year to my husband Nathan and have three daughters—Briauna (23), Kaylee (21), and Gracie (18)—and an adorable granddaughter, Koda. I enjoy reading, cooking, walking, and traveling. I am also a U.S. Navy veteran, having served four years as a jet engine mechanic.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a Master’s in Elementary Education. I love the community at Ivywood—it truly feels like family.

Classical education is how I was raised, how I was trained, and what I believe in. It shapes whole people, and that is exactly what the classical model builds. My favorite part of the curriculum is our rich exploration of history!

I look forward to watching my students—and my own children—grow and eventually walk across the stage, shaped by what is good, true, and beautiful. My husband, Adam, is a Chiropractor and Functional Medicine Doctor in Plymouth. We have five wonderful children, a puppy, and a grandbaby on the way. We love spending time together as a family, and I enjoy working out and running with them.

I’m grateful for the privilege of working with your children each day.

I teach 6th grade Literature and Science at Ivywood, and what I love most is the sense of family within our school community.

I value classical education because it makes teaching fun and engaging, sparking students’ curiosity through meaningful topics across their academic journey. I especially enjoy the variety of novels we read and the thoughtful class discussions they inspire.

I hold a degree in Elementary Education with a focus in Science and Literature, and a Master’s in Special Education. I am married with two children, and we enjoy traveling together.

I teach music to students in grades K–3 at Ivywood, and I love the sense of community and the connections I get to make with students and their families.

Classical education inspires me with its focus on the good, the true, and the beautiful. I enjoy bringing music to life for each grade—from kindergarten’s Carnival of the Animals to first grade’s Peter and the Wolf and second grade’s composers like Vivaldi and Beethoven—while integrating singing and performance throughout.

I earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and am pursuing a master’s in Reading. My husband and I have six children, and we enjoy cooking, traveling, and being active in our church.

I teach Physical Education to students in grades K–3 at Ivywood, and what I love most is the intention and purpose behind our curriculum. It helps students understand the “why” behind their learning and instills the beauty of being a lifelong learner.

I value classical education because it focuses on the whole student, aiming to develop well-rounded individuals who think critically, love learning, and use their talents meaningfully. My favorite part of the curriculum is its balance between physical fitness and sports—both are equally important, and every student is supported in my PE classroom.

I look forward to spending time with the kids each day, building strong relationships with students and their families over the years.

I’ve been married to my husband for 18 years, and we have two daughters, Hadley and Noelle, and a 4-year-old Vizsla named Jasper. I enjoy weight lifting, doing my nails, and reading British whodunits. As a family, we love outdoor activities like biking, hiking, rock climbing, skiing, swimming, and playing badminton.

I hold a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management with a Minor in Psychology from Eastern Michigan University.

I teach art to students in grades 4–6 at Ivywood, and what I love most are the incredible families and students, as well as a school community that truly supports the arts. Classical education is beautiful to me because no subject is taught in isolation; instead, we nurture the whole child, cultivating critical thinking, moral virtues, and a love for learning in a world that often feels chaotic.

The art curriculum is especially rewarding because it spirals and builds over time. Art history connects students to the broader story of humanity, while studio work gives them the joy of creating and discussing meaningful ideas. I feel fortunate to witness students grow as both artists and human beings.

Outside of school, I enjoy painting, gardening, cooking, and engaging in thoughtful conversations about life. I share my home with my husband, two children, and our dog. I look forward to getting to know each new group of students each year.

I teach Literature to 10th and 11th graders at Ivywood, and what I love most is working alongside our dedicated staff and brilliant, engaged scholars.

I value classical education because it is designed to shape the whole person, fostering both intellect and character. I especially enjoy teaching the poetry woven throughout our curriculum, which sparks thoughtful discussion and deep reflection.

I look forward to engaging with students each day and helping them grow as both readers and thinkers.

I teach 7th and 8th grade Literature at Ivywood, and what I love most is being part of a classical school—a rare opportunity that I am extremely grateful for.

I value classical education because it focuses on the formation of the soul, exposes students to great books and primary texts, and emphasizes the humanities without neglecting STEM. It is the liberal arts education I wish I had growing up, and I’m honored to provide it to today’s students and my own children.

My favorite part of the curriculum is the rich literature selection, including classics such as The Odyssey, The Aeneid, Oedipus the King, The Inferno, Beowulf, Macbeth, and Paradise Lost. I look forward to helping form the next generation of thoughtful, virtuous individuals.

I hold a Master of Arts in Great Books from Memoria College and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Michigan-Dearborn. I am married to my wife, Grace, and we have two daughters, Melanie and Maisie. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, hiking, music, serving in church, and cheering on the Detroit Lions. Some of my favorite authors include Homer, Sophocles, St. Augustine, Dante, Shakespeare, Milton, Dostoevsky, Chesterton, C.S. Lewis, and Tolkien.

I teach 7th and 8th grade History at Ivywood, and what I love most is seeing my own sons—and all our students—develop a love for learning, think critically, and grow in character.

I value classical education because it trains students to love learning and equips them with lifelong skills. I especially appreciate how our curriculum consistently gives students opportunities to speak confidently in public through poetry recitations, Socratic seminars, rhetoric classes, and eventually their Senior Thesis defenses.

I look forward to the day our entire student body can come together at our fully realized campus. In my free time, I enjoy reading, spending time near any Great Lake, watching movies, and playing games with my family.

I teach Upper School History to students in grades 9–11 at Ivywood, and what I love most is that our school provides a rigorous curriculum exposing students to the great works of history, literature, and more.

I value classical education because it emphasizes virtue-based learning, allowing students to learn for the love of learning itself. I enjoy exploring the past to understand who we are as humans and using the lives of others as a springboard to self-discovery. I especially appreciate using primary documents—written by those who lived through historical events—which invite students to engage directly with history and its dialogue.

I look forward to helping students develop a love for history, make connections across subjects like art, music, and literature, and apply the lessons of the past to their own lives.

I hold a Master’s Degree in U.S. History with a minor in World History from Indiana University. My wife and I have been married for three years, enjoy traveling, discovering new coffee shops, and participating in our local church in Taylor, MI. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and playing guitar.

I teach mathematics to students in grades 7–12 at Ivywood, and what I love most about our school are the virtues we cultivate alongside academics. Classical education, for me, goes beyond learning; it nurtures the mind, character, and soul, helping students develop wisdom, build virtue, and live with purpose. It also challenges me to grow and model these values every day.

My favorite part of teaching math is helping students develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Mathematics at Ivywood is more than formulas and equations—it’s about shaping minds to think critically, solve complex problems, and communicate effectively.

I look forward to seeing my students graduate, having experienced everything from the Color Run and Math Club to baseball and thoughtful discussions on life’s big questions. I love watching them build lifelong friendships and memories they’ll carry with them.

At home, I enjoy time with my husband, our three children, and our loyal dog. I also love renovating our home, family board game and movie nights, reading, and gardening.

I teach 7th through 9th grade math at Ivywood, and what I love most is the team spirit and shared commitment to great education. My passion is nurturing lifelong learners and helping students explore the “why” behind the math. I especially enjoy enrichment days that highlight great mathematicians and invite students to ask questions like, “Why does this work?” and “How can we improve?”

For me, the greatest reward is growing alongside my colleagues and students in our shared pursuit of the true, the good, and the beautiful.

I hold a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education. Outside the classroom, I’m an avid reader, puzzle enthusiast, and road-trip lover. I’ve been married for 17 years and am the proud mom of four daughters, ages 7 to 14. I also enjoy fostering a love of reading in the community—I opened a lending library from my home when the pandemic closed local libraries, and those who know, call me “the book lady.”

I teach Upper School Science for grades 9–11 at Ivywood. What I love most is our shared purpose and community, and having the freedom to create meaningful lessons that support students as whole people.

I value classical education because it emphasizes the good, the true, and the beautiful, challenging both students and teachers to grow in virtue and wisdom. I enjoy all areas of science, from hands-on labs to exploring the historical and philosophical aspects of the field.

I look forward to watching our Upper School grow, welcoming new staff, expanding the House system, and preparing for our first graduating class in 2027.

I hold a B.S. in Biology and Engineering Physics, an M.S. and Ph.D. in Holistic Nutrition, and am a Certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (ASCP). I am married with one daughter in 4th grade at Ivywood, and I enjoy reading, cooking, walking, and playing tennis. After a 20+ year career in the medical field, I joined Ivywood to share my love of science and its wonder with the next generation.

I teach 7th and 8th grade science at Ivywood, and what I love most about our school are the virtues we strive to cultivate in every student. Classical education, for me, is about teaching children how to learn, fostering critical thinking while integrating moral virtues into every lesson.

My favorite part of the science curriculum is helping students see how the core sciences are interconnected and fit together, building a deeper understanding of the natural world. I look forward to seeing our graduates return to share how Ivywood has shaped their lives.

I hold a BS in Education and an M.Ed. in Science Education. Outside the classroom, I enjoy camping, hiking, and kayaking.

I teach 7th and 8th grade Latin at Ivywood, and what I love most is how close and welcoming our community is—it truly feels like one big family.

I value classical education because it exposes students to great works of literature in their entirety while cultivating essential critical thinking skills. I especially enjoy how the curriculum is designed for cross-curricular connections, such as when 9th graders reading about Aeneas in Literature can bring insights about his character and virtue into their History studies on the founding of Rome.

I look forward to watching our Upper School students grow in knowledge and character, becoming leaders both at Ivywood and in their broader communities. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, playing the recorder, and learning new languages.

I hold a B.A. in Latin Language & Literature with a minor in History from the University of Michigan, and I am currently pursuing an M.Ed. in Secondary Instruction & Curriculum.

I teach Upper School Art for grades 7–11, where I combine my background in chemistry with a passion for the fine arts. What I love about Ivywood’s program is the way it weaves together art history and studio techniques, giving students both skill and perspective.

I value classical education because it treats students as individuals worthy of virtue and wisdom, not just knowledge. My favorite part of the curriculum is its emphasis on original sources, which encourages students to think deeply and share ideas in meaningful ways.

What excites me most is the legacy we are building—preparing students not only for future success but to live with integrity and serve the greater good. As a mother of six, I’ve enjoyed modeling a love of learning at home, and outside the classroom I find joy in exploring the beauty of nature.

I serve as Ivywood’s Director of Bands & Choirs and also coach Track & Field at the Upper School. I hold a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Music Education, as well as a PhD in Music Education. Over the course of my career, I’ve had the privilege of teaching music to students from Kindergarten through doctoral programs, with ensembles consistently earning high marks at festivals and invitationals. A highlight for me was leading a group invited to perform at the Detroit International Jazz Festival.

What I love about Ivywood is its incredible school community and the richness of classical education. I especially enjoy how the curriculum revisits key ideas over time, each cycle adding greater depth and understanding. Looking ahead, I’m excited to celebrate Ivywood’s very first graduating class.

Beyond teaching and performing professionally, I enjoy cooking, grilling and smoking, and spending time outdoors with my family. As a coach, I’ve loved growing Ivywood’s Track & Field program and look forward to seeing many athletes go on to compete at the NCAA level.

I am the Upper School Physical Education teacher for grades 7–11, with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education with a K–12 Professional Instruction emphasis, a second major in Education, and a minor in School Health Education. Easy answer—my students are what I love most!

I value classical education because it focuses on developing moral and intellectual leaders, shaping well-rounded students who can take their skills and character wherever life leads. In PE, I especially enjoy integrating the physical, cognitive, and affective domains, aligning fitness with virtue-based character development. This approach goes beyond simple exercise and supports the holistic growth of every student.

I look forward to seeing Ivywood and its community grow, especially as we continue building toward the school’s original vision. I’m particularly excited about utilizing Ivywood’s first full-size gym!

Outside of school, my wife Megan and I enjoy walks and spending time outdoors, whether exploring natural landmarks or relaxing at a local park or lake. Soccer is another passion of mine, and I love finding new ways to engage with the sport.

I serve as a Behavior Interventionist and Student Advocate at Ivywood. I graduated from Cedarville University in 2024 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, concentrating in family and child studies. What I love most about Ivywood is its supportive, involved community. Families, staff, and students make this a joyful and encouraging place to work every day.

Classical education inspires me because it teaches students not only to excel academically, but also to cultivate virtues and values that shape character and have a lasting impact. It fosters wonder and encourages students to ask meaningful questions that grow their love for learning and truth. I especially enjoy classic children’s literature—the timeless stories provide rich lessons and opportunities for meaningful discussion, helping students become well-rounded individuals.

I look forward to all the fun events Ivywood organizes for students and staff alike. Outside of school, you can usually find me spending time with friends and family, hunting for new coffee shops, being active, watching movies, or working on crafty projects.

I work in the Lower School Resource Program supporting K–4 students with individualized education plans. I hold a Master’s Degree in Teaching Reading, as well as degrees in Early Childhood Education (PK–K) and Elementary Education (K–5), with certifications in Special Education K–8.

I love collaborating with staff and families to help each student grow, instill wonder, and live out our school’s virtues every day. Teaching reading is my passion, and I especially enjoy seeing students celebrate their accomplishments as they meet goals and build confidence.

I’ve been married for over 25 years and treasure time with my adult children—sharing sports stats and trivia with my son, and enjoying “girl time” with my daughter. I’m excited to continue working with Ivywood families and students!

I serve as the Occupational Therapist for grades K–12 at Ivywood. What I love most is being part of a community of staff and families working together to provide students with an excellent education grounded in virtue.

I value classical education because it inspires wonder, encourages curiosity, and fosters a lifelong love of learning. I’m especially excited to support scholars who need additional guidance so they can thrive and flourish at Ivywood.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and three children, gardening, going to the beach, reading, and figure skating.

I teach Special Education to students in grades 7–11 at Ivywood, and what I love most is my students, fellow educators, staff, and parents. I also value being part of the BCSI network and engaging with our rigorous, timeless curriculum.

I appreciate classical education because it emphasizes educating the whole person. I especially enjoy sharing rich literature with my students and watching them engage with meaningful texts.

I’m excited to be teaching in our beautiful new building and look forward to all the opportunities it brings.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in French and English, a Master of Arts in Teaching English (certified 6–12), and an endorsement in Learning Disabilities K–12. I am married with three children—my oldest is a rising junior at Hillsdale College, and my younger two attend Ivywood in 8th and 10th grade. We also have a lovable dog named Brownie.

I am the Social Worker at Ivywood, and what I love most about our school is that students have the space to focus on their education while developing the skills to become lifelong learners. I appreciate that each year builds on the last, giving students a strong, cumulative foundation in both academics and character.

As Ivywood continues to grow, I look forward to developing programs that meet the specific needs of our students and support their holistic development.

I hold a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Social Work. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time outdoors, reading, and cherishing moments with my two sons and stepdaughter.

I serve as the School Psychologist for grades K–12 at Ivywood, and what I love most is being part of a community of teachers, staff, and families who share the same purpose: shaping hearts and minds to develop thoughtful, virtuous citizens. I enjoy watching students’ curiosity grow and being challenged myself to maintain high standards.

I value classical education because it emphasizes the “why” behind learning, sparks critical thinking, and nurtures character. I especially appreciate how the curriculum revisits topics over time, deepening understanding and helping students connect their learning to who they are becoming.

I look forward to engaging in meaningful conversations, witnessing the sense of wonder in students, and contributing to the ongoing growth of our school community.

I hold an Ed.S. and M.S. in School Psychology, and a B.A. in Psychology. My husband, Troy, and I are proud Hillsdale graduates and have three children who attend Ivywood. As a family, we love hiking, backpacking, traveling, and playing sports together. I personally enjoy running and gardening to stay active and grounded.

I am an Elementary Paraprofessional with a Master’s Degree in Education, concentrating in Art Therapy. I love working alongside our dedicated teachers and supporting students as they grow.

I appreciate classical education for its back-to-basics approach, from paper to pen, and I especially enjoy helping students explore reading, art, and music. My favorite events are Fine Arts Night and the music concerts, where students showcase their creativity and hard work.

I am married and have three children. In our free time, we enjoy biking and paddle boarding together.

I have been a veterinary technician for over 20 years. While working in the veterinary field, I completed the Phlebotomy and Nursing program at Schoolcraft College, graduating in 2008. I have also taken courses in child psychology and behavioral studies, and I hope to return to complete that degree.

What I love most about Ivywood are the friendships I have built with families here—they feel more like family than friends—and the way our school teaches the true fundamentals of learning. I look forward to the day when we are all together in the new school building.

My family and I love being outdoors—at the beach, exploring parks, and observing wildlife while learning about plants and natural remedies. We have two boys who attend Ivywood and have been part of the community since 2022. We also share a love for animals and care for 30 chickens, 5 dogs, 2 cats, and even rehabilitate wildlife.

I work as a Teacher’s Aide at Ivywood for grades K–6, and what I love most is our unique community—it truly feels like one big family. I appreciate being part of a classical, virtue-based school where literacy is valued as the foundation for all learning.

My favorite part of the curriculum is Literacy Essentials, which teaches students the coding of words through phonograms and helps them develop strong reading skills. I look forward to working with students and watching them grow as they engage with this exciting curriculum.

I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Spring Arbor University. Outside of school, I’ve been married to Ryan for 12 years, and we have three children, two of whom attend Ivywood. I enjoy reading, gardening, and spending time at the lake with my family.

I hold a secondary teaching certificate in English and Psychology, as well as a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science. I love the community at Ivywood—we have such a supportive and nurturing environment for our students, families, and staff.

I love classical education because it focuses on developing the whole child. The virtues are woven throughout the curriculum, which is essential for strong character development. My favorite parts of the curriculum are the poetry and the classical literature.

I look forward to the day when we are all together in our new building! I am married to my wonderful husband, Mike, and we have two children who both attend Ivywood.

I earned my B.S. in Communication Disorders from Calvin University and my M.A. in Speech Pathology from Western Michigan University. I deeply appreciate the dedication of the Ivywood staff and their commitment to inspiring a genuine love of learning, modeling strong virtues, and holding scholars to a high standard of excellence.

What I love most about classical education is the rich, thought-provoking conversations it fosters at home and in the classroom. My favorite aspect of the curriculum is the thoughtful alignment across subjects, all grounded in the study of classical literature.

I am honored to be part of the Ivywood team, helping each scholar develop the ability to communicate with clarity and confidence, so they can achieve their highest potential.

My husband, Derek, and I have two wonderful boys who attend Ivywood—one in the Upper School and one in the Lower School. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family, and volunteering within our church and school communities.