Biography: Laura is an assistant instructor of educational development working in NNU’s Center for Professional Development. She assists schools and districts in aligning credit for district training, overseeing CPD Online course development, and connecting educators with available professional development. Prior to joining NNU’s faculty, Laura taught for 35 years in the Nampa School District. She received a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northwest Nazarene College and returned to NNU to complete her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction.

What is your favorite thing about working at NNU? I love the people and sense of community at NNU.

Share a few facts about your specific area(s) of expertise that you bring to the classroom: Laura’s passion is bringing together experts in the field of education from multiple organizations to develop quality continuing education experiences that benefits many. Working with literacy experts from around the Treasure Valley, Laura facilitated the development of “Dyslexia and the Science of Reading” to meet a recertification requirement. This course has been taken by hundreds of teachers around the state of Idaho. Most recently, Laura worked with ESL/ML experts to develop a fully online ESL Endorsement program available as an add on endorsement for Idaho Teachers.

Share a few pieces of information that represent your teaching experience and why you love working with students: Before coming to NNU, Laura worked in the Nampa School District teaching in grades 3, 4, and 5. She loved engaging with students and exciting their passion for learning.