Hi, I’m Jen!

I’m an elementary educator, early literacy intervention teacher, and the heart behind Sparkling in Elementary. For the past 16 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with young learners as they build strong foundations in reading. I currently support students in TK-2, where early intervention and foundational literacy are at the center of everything I do.

Over the years, I’ve worn many hats in education. I’ve taught first grade, second grade, and sixth grade, and I’ve also worked in K–6 math intervention. These experiences have helped me see how important those early skills really are and how the right support at the right time can truly change a child’s learning journey. Today, my passion is phonics and early literacy skills, along with creating simple, easy-to-implement resources and classroom ideas that support both teachers and students in feeling successful. As a busy full-time teacher and mom, I understand the need for practical tools that are meaningful and ready to use.

I started this blog in 2012, and those who have been here from the beginning have truly grown alongside me as an educator. I believe deeply that as I learn more, I do better, and this space reflects that ongoing journey of growth, reflection, and commitment to supporting young learners and the teachers who serve them.

Outside the classroom, I’m a mom and a life-long learner. Some of my favorite things include traveling to both new and familiar places, getting lost in a really good book, and spending time with my family.

Sparkling in Elementary is my little space to share ideas and practical tools for early elementary teachers. I’m so glad you found me in this small corner of the internet!

Disclosure – The owner of this blog may be compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Even though I receive compensation for posts or advertisements, I always give honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the my own. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party in question.