• Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, Central College, 1987
• Reading Endorsement,
• Masters Degree in Elementary School Counseling, Drake University, 1993
• 1987-1991 Substitute Teaching and Classroom Aide for area schools
• 1991-1992 PCGS 6th grade Bible and Social Studies
• 1992-current, Guidance Counselor for the K-8 area Christian Schools

I consider it a tremendous privilege to serve the area K-8 Christian Schools of Pella, Oskaloosa, Peoria, Newton, Sully and Grinnell.  I have learned so much from the connections I have had with each of you.  I enjoy my time in each classroom once a month - teaching, talking, and learning with the students. 

I and my husband Larry live in Pella and greatly enjoy time with our family - oldest daughter Tricia, her husband Lance Van Zee and grandsons Avery, Carver, and Davis of Pella; middle daughter Jana and her husband Paul Boonstra and their children, Annika, Sophia and Isaiah of New Sharon; and the youngest, our son Ben Van Haaften and his wife Jeana of Sully. 

I enjoy dates with my husband, time with my grandkids, traveling, reading the newspaper, Sudoku and Blokus puzzle challenges, and involvement with Wednesday evening youth ministry at my church. 

The Bible verse that I hold as the foundation for my counseling profession is John 10:10.  "The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy: but I (Jesus) have come to give you life and give it to the full."   That is the hope that Christ offers us and I can bring to children and families as they encounter the struggles of life.