ABOUT ERIKK

No, the spelling of my name is not an error. However, I will never hold it against anyone if they were to spell it incorrectly – it happens quite a bit!

I was born in Idaho, but I spent my formative years in a small town in Alaska. Then, I moved to an equally small town in Texas. I had an unorthodox upbringing, in that I was raised by my wonderful (non-biological) grandparents who have been an inspiration throughout my life and have shaped the person I've become. 

In terms of education, I received my undergraduate degree from Baylor University in Sociology (with a minor in Film & Digital Media). I also attended the University of Texas at El Paso and received an M.A. in Rhetoric & Writing Studies with a focus on games and learning.

I don’t have the prototypical story of becoming a teacher. I started teaching college students research and writing, then middle school, high school, and now back to middle school! I often think, “How in the world did I end up teaching?” And in reflection, it’s abundantly clear that it was the kindness of others – my grandparents who saw my life as valuable, friends who encouraged me, and – of course – the many teachers whose shoulders I stand upon.

In my precious free time, I enjoy making videos; watching films about Hobbits trying to destroy a ring; researching video games; playing some sort of sport or game to relieve the stress; and spending time with my family.