I evaluate and supervise 80 employees, including certified teachers and support staff. I have an enrollment of 345 students in the K-6 and am responsible for providing programming for instructional purposes to ensure that our students are proficient in accordance with state standards for performance. I currently oversee a 1.4 million dollar budget annually.

I was a coach and teacher, who wanted to be a role model and advocate for the kids, when I decided to move into education management to empower teachers and employees of my school to be the best that they can be. I knew that in my role as an administrator I would have access to the budget so that I could better align and allocate monies for student gain and teacher development. I wanted to develop quality educators and teachers who would in turn develop their skills to better serve the students. 

I completed my Post Graduate Studies in Education Specialist and Career Superintendent, Pre-School - 12 at the South Dakota State University.  That is also where I completed my MS Degree in Education Administration. My undergraduate studies were done at the University of Mary where I received my BS degree in Elementary Education.

I was always the youngest person and the only woman in the room. I  had to continually prove myself and it was hard to get the all-male education management to hear my voice. As time has passed there are more women in the room and, since I have been recognized and obtained a grant, new doors are opening for me. 

Writing and communicating along with being persuasive and and empowering those around me to believe in themselves is where I find my greatest value. 

I am most proud of the project I am currently working on. It is an Application and Electronic Workbook that I am putting together called, Living Language of the Lakota People, which I am set to bring to districts nationally and in Canada. With Strand 1 slated to be completed by summers' end I believe I am leaving a legacy for the students and communities from the Lakota tribe. 

I am looking towards obtaining my doctorate degree and moving up administratively, to Superintendent or a board member of the Native American Indian Education Board. 

My mom, who is an elementary school teacher, instilled in me early on that education opens up doors and motivated me to achieve. Additionally, my coaches and teachers, especially Cheryl Crazy Bull, who coached me in volley ball and set a wonderful example for me to follow. 

I want to be remembered as some one who worked hard, persevered, and helped empower others to become their best self. I also want to be remembered for my efforts in helping to fill the gap between home and school and passing on the Lakota language and traditions. 

N.I.E.A.

NIESBA

The Little Red Wagon

I love to read and I collect books.