I grew up in the Iron Mountain/Kingsford area and graduated from Kingsford High School. I graduated from Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with a double major in Language Arts and Social Studies and a minor in Integrated Sciences. I have a Master’s degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment from Walden University. This is my second year at NVAS. I spent the first six years teaching at the School District of Florence County in both 5th and 3rd grades. Outside of teaching, I spend a lot of time with my husband, Steve, and our Brittany Spaniel, Josie. We enjoy many outdoor activities together such as playing tennis, running, cross-country skiing, four-wheeling, bird hunting, and swimming. I also love curling up with a good book to read. Steve and I both have family in town, so we enjoy spending time with them, too.
My husband and I welcomed the birth of our daughter, Joleah Justina, on August 2, 2020. I will be spending the first eight weeks at home with Joleah; meanwhile, Mr. McDowell will be the long term substitute teacher. I am disappointed that I will not be able to start the year with students in the classroom, but I am confident that they will enjoy their time with Mr. McDowell. I will be teaching students that are "virtual" though. As I plan to return on October 19th, I look forward to teaching each student and helping them grow and succeed as individuals, as well as work together as a classroom community. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at school via email: mderwinski@nvknights.org.