My teaching philosophy is that everyone has strengths and weaknesses in education. We need to use the strengths to lift up the weaknesses. Students learn best in an environment where they feel safe to take educational risks, ask questions, feel appreciated. When these come together, we get amazing results in student growth.  Use this class and the time year to make yourself better.  It will take practice and study time at home.  About 20 minutes 4 nights a week is common.  The work is usually book work; reading and notes, memorizing, or finishing lab conclusions.

I was born in Tucson, Arizona, graduated from East Lansing High School in Michigan and graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Earth Science.  At MSU, I met and married Jerry Burdick-Rutz, who is our band director at GOHS.  I finished my teaching credential at University of New Mexico in 1996. I've taught 5th grade in Belen, New Mexico, middle school at Margarita Middle School in Temecula, high school at CHS but love being part of the Wolfpack best of all.

We have three grown kids(young adults); Ben, class of 2018, John, class of 2020  and Jane, class of 2021, who I am amazed at every day and they teach me how to be a better mom and teacher. 

I coordinate the school garden and always need volunteers and garden enthusiasts!

I am also the Indigenous People's Club advisor and love connecting with our students at GOHS.