About Alberta

The entirety of my professional life has been in education, spanning kindergarten to college settings. I am a parent of three, and a spouse of a lifelong educator. My four siblings are educators, as are some of their spouses. So, kids in schools and the philosophy of education are regular topics when we all get together.

I was a credentialed teacher until I had my first son. From there, I earned a graduate degree in school psychology, and a PPS (Pupil Personnel Services) credential, which ultimately led to my career as a learning specialist. Currently, I am completing an ICF (International Coaching Federation)-accredited certification in ADHD Coaching, and Academic Life Coaching. I am a life-long learner. In coaching I get to work with the client to see what’s not working, what is, and co-create a plan to move forward.

In my work with students of all ages, across all settings, I encounter many students who struggle academically or behaviorally, without ever understanding the reasons why. They often assume it is their fault. Frequently, these students are embarrassed by how difficult things feel, so seeking help seems out of the question. Sometimes, people are misinterpreted as lazy or disengaged, and that creates a sense of shame. With shame comes a reluctance to seek support. A student can try to become invisible. I am drawn to moments when students feel comfortable telling me what school and life are really like for them.

When I meet with students, we assess where they are now and where they ultimately want to go. First we work on understanding more about their strengths and challenges. Once we can understand the root of the struggle and identify any roadblocks, I can help students harness their unique abilities and fortify their sense of competence. I want to help draw students back into an awareness of possibility and empowerment. I give students the benefit of the doubt, so they are comfortable taking risks. In this work we are looking at what the student already knows about him or herself.

Typically, transitions are a time of the greatest potential struggle, as well as an opportunity for course-correcting or strategizing ahead. These transitions might occur in the form of a change in learning environments, or academic expectations, at any point in the educational life of a student.

I love this work. I love being an advocate for students, and teaching them to become advocates for themselves. I look forward to partnering with you in support of growth.