Meet Ms. Lampkin

 Hi friends!

Well to introduce myself I will start from the beginning. I was born in San Diego, California and moved to Vancouver, Washington when I was two years old. We moved around for my dad's career but we always had a home here in the PNW. My parents and siblings are my best friends and are extremely close (all living within 10 minutes of each other.) My parents have been married 32 years and are the most fun. I love spending time with them. My sister (33) is married with my sweet little nephew Joey (5.) She and I are completely opposite but with a very strong bond (it's a sister thing :).) My brother (23) graduated last summer from college and just recently graduated from Firefighting academy. Him and I are six years apart but extremely similar. All in all, we are all extremely close.  

My teaching journey was a bit unconventional and unexpected but happened at the most perfect time. In September of 2018 I ended my engagement to an extremely abusive and manipulative fiancé. I wouldn't change what I went through for anything. I learned a lot about myself and became stronger than I could have ever imagined. In February 2019 one of my best friends moved to Colorado, so naturally following a horrible break-up, I decided I needed an adventure. After my visit, I started looking for job opportunities in Denver and moved there three weeks later. It was a quick decision but one of the best ones I have made. I grew on so many levels and regained my lost independence. I felt like someone who could take on the world; the adventure of becoming a teacher began. I have always wanted to be a teacher, but let fear and self-doubt get in the way. While in Denver, I started researching colleges and programs and when they would start. Everything seemed to line up. From program start dates, volunteering, substitute teaching and the bonus of being home closer to my family, it seemed like a no brainer. Once I began the move home, I finally felt I was on the path to my future.

So as most of you may know, I am the hopeless romantic of this cohort. I am an open book and also not the most shy out of the bunch either. I love traveling, adventure, paddle boarding, hiking, camping, fishing, really anything outdoors. I love children and have always loved the way they see the world; innocent and magical. I cannot wait to become a teacher and start my career in education. 

- Stephanie