Albert Einstein
Creating A Love of Learning through Connection, Community and Joy
What if we brought more JOY back into education?
Drawing on 31 years of teaching and experiences with children and educators around the world, this book shares heartfelt stories, practical strategies, and inspiration for creating classrooms where every child feels seen, valued, and excited to learn.
Because relationships matter. Belonging matters. And JOY matters.
What began as a dream after retiring from 31 years of teaching became a five-year journey of writing, reflecting, and countless revisions.
Along the way, I found inspiration in the children who shaped my life, the educators who generously shared their stories, and my experiences teaching and learning around the world.
From Oregon to Thailand, Uganda, and Spain, every classroom reminded me of the extraordinary power of relationships, community, and JOY.
There were moments of doubt, endless editing, and plenty of learning along the way. With the encouragement of my family, friends, and fellow educators, I kept going.
And now, after five years, How Are the Children? is finally published!
My greatest hope is that this book reminds educators of the incredible difference they make every single day—and inspires them to create classrooms where children feel seen, valued, connected, and excited to learn.

Rita Pierson's powerful message, Every Kid Needs a Champion, has inspired me throughout my teaching journey. Her belief that children need educators who genuinely care, believe in them, and build meaningful relationships speaks to the very heart of my book.
Every child deserves someone who sees their potential, celebrates their strengths, and reminds them that they matter. Relationships are not simply part of education. They are the foundation of everything we do.
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