Having worked in the fields of music and education for 58 years (I began playing the organ for church at age 12 and began teaching piano lessons at age 14), it is a privilege to return to Ankeny Christian Academy, after serving as the long-term elementary music substitute last year. I have previously taught music and gifted education, in addition to employment at tutoring services, in Avon and Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Akron and Ankeny, Iowa; Diamondhead, Kiln, and Gulfport, Mississippi. Previously, I also previously served as the piano accompanist for Northview Middle School Choirs and Ignition 8th Grade Show Choir, as well as for Ankeny Centennial High School instrumental soloists at the Perry Band Olympics.
I believe that music is special gift given by God, to each of us, as well as a critical part of child development. We will continue to enjoy singing, dancing, playing instruments, learning about the history of music and experiencing music from many world cultures. It has been especially fun for me to remember and renew the beloved songs I learned as a child in Avon, South Dakota, and then taught my own children and their friends at our family church in Akron, Iowa.
My favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 6:8 - “Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: ’Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I! Send me.’” My daily prayer is, “Lord, Be Thou My Vision, show me how to serve.”