This is my seventh year with Gaylord Community Schools, and I absolutely love working with the students, parents, staff, and community here! I am the K-3 Reading Specialist at South Maple Elementary and am so lucky to spend my days helping students learn how to read and write. 

Previously, I taught first and second grades in Florida and two other districts in Michigan. I have my Master's in Reading and Literacy K-12 from Central Michigan University, where I also completed my Bachelor's degree in Public Relations and Political Science. I spent time studying in Wollongong, Australia, and worked for two hockey teams during my college years.

I love traveling, camping, kayaking, hiking, cross-country skiing, snorkeling, photography, reading, and spending time with my family and pets. I currently have a rabbit, two dogs, four cats, two ducks, and a goose, but that could change at any time as I love adopting new family members! :)   

My email address is barstj@gaylord.k12.mi.us .