DIRECTOR

I am one of the original founders and directors of Service Stars. I grew up in New York but came to the Newton area to attend Boston College and have been a Newton resident ever since. I live with my husband and two daughters (Tessa 7 and Lizzy 4) in West Newton. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction (Moderate Special Needs) from Boston College. I was a classroom teacher in first and second grade in Holliston for 15 years and always had a desire to put more time into service learning with my students. I started Service Stars as a summer camp in 2018 and am excited to be transitioning from teaching to working on Service Stars full time!

CO-DIRECTOR

I am very excited to join the Service Stars team of educators! I grew up in Acton, MA and lived in both Newtonville and Auburndale for several years before my husband and I settled in Weston with our two daughters (Chloe 7 and Sienna 5). I have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master's degree in education. I was a part of the Wayland Public Schools for 13 years where I held positions as 7th grade math teacher and math interventionist. In addition to my role as teacher I coached sports as well as fulfilled the role of teacher team leader. I feel strongly that service to others is an important part of any community and I look forward to bringing my skills to Service Stars and meeting all of you soon!

TEACHER - WEDNESDAYS

I am pleased to be joining the Service Stars team and the Newton community this fall. I have worked with elementary and middle school children for the past 20 years. I taught middle school mathematics for many years in North Carolina and Ohio. Most recently, while living abroad in Asia with my family, I have spent my time actively volunteering with numerous school and community organizations like Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts. My education background includes a bachelor’s degree in Education and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction which I'm eager to apply to helping build and grow Service Stars projects. Growing up, I regularly participated in a variety of service organizations and these experiences had a profound impact on my world perspective. Now as a mom of two young kids, I am passionate about helping children learn how to give back to the community while also having fun.

TEACHER - WEDNESDAYS

I first was introduced to Service Stars through a connection for a NICU project at summer camp. I have 2 children (Sophia 3 and Jackson 8 months) who were premies so this cause always holds a place in my heart. I was inspired by the Service Stars summer program and their mission and have been involved ever since. I have a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a master's degree in College Student Development and Counseling. My two passions are children and service so Service Stars is the perfect combination! I currently work at Big Sister Boston championing our amazing families, engaging with volunteers and connecting with the Greater Boston community. I also coach Girls on the Run, a running and empowerment program for 3-5 graders. I have held numerous volunteer positions at non-profits and by far my favorite volunteer companions are children and families. I am super excited to be part of the Service Stars Afterschool Program this fall!

COOPERATIVE GAMES LEADER

I am a wellness educator with a playful approach to managing stress and building resilience. I have over 30 years of experience teaching children, teens and adults. I am a former member of ImprovBoston, an improv comedy group. I have taught Improv skills as well as creative dramatics at ImprovBoston, Carroll School and The Umbrella Community Arts Center in Concord, MA. I am a certified “Shake Your Soul-Yoga Dance” instructor. I received my certification at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in July 2019. I have taught classes at The Beede Fitness Center and Emerson Hospital’s Steinberg Wellness Center in Concord, MA. I focus on fostering a safe, non-judgmental environment in all workshops and classes to allow each participant’s creativity and self-expression to thrive.