I'm entering my second year of teaching at River Woods. I'm proud to be a first-generation Pakistani American, with roots tracing back to the vibrant Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago. My teaching journey began in Seattle, where I spent three years teaching 1st grade, and I also had the privilege of teaching Kindergarten at CPS for a year. My passion for education is rivaled only by my love for my family – I share my home in Naperville with my husband and our two incredible daughters, Imani (2 years old) and Sophia (2 months old). Beyond the classroom, you'll often find me exploring the culinary scene, experimenting with cooking, and indulging my creative side through hand lettering. I'm also an avid explorer of Chicago's diverse restaurant offerings. Here's to another enriching year of learning and growth at River Woods!

I am excited for another great school year ahead! This will be my 9th year in education. I have taught preschool, kindergarten, first and second grade, but am thrilled to be in my third year teaching Kinder! I earned my Bachelors in Elementary Education from Trinity Christian College and my Masters in Educational Leadership from North Central College. In my free time, I love working out, walking my dog - Bear - and traveling! I love being a teacher and helping our River Woods students reach their full potential each day. 

Excited to start year 20 in kinder and loving every day of it! My family has my heart and watching our 3 kids grow up is my husband’s (who is also a teacher) and my greatest joy and privilege! When I’m not at school, outside is my favorite place to be. Whether it’s going for a run with our 3 dogs, sitting by a beach with friends and family, or watching my kids play one of their many sports, sunshine is my favorite accessory!

I have 17 years of Bilingual Inclusion, Dual Language and ELL-Resource classroom experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse families and student's.  I come from a big Colombian family of educators that is scattered throughout the world.  In my free time I enjoy reading books, walking in nature, meditating and spending time with loved ones.  Thank you for sharing your little one with me!  I look forward to working collaboratively with you to develop in your little one an intrinsic love of learning, making friends and having fun!