I’m from NY – married right out of college and moved to LA in ‘97 where I became a 5th grade teacher. After puttering around different spots on the west side, we had a baby and decided the Palisades seemed the perfect place to raise a family. That was almost 21 years ago. So most of my adult life has been lived in the Palisades. Both of my kids went to Marquez. While at Marquez, my daughter’s teacher recommended I take her to the local Kumon Math and Reading center for math help. This ended up leading me to eventually open my own center in the Village after the old center closed its doors.
Let’s Share Your Story
Tell us a little about yourself. Where did your story begin, and what led you to the Palisades?
I’m from NY – married right out of college and moved to LA in ‘97 where I became a 5th grade teacher. After puttering around different spots on the west side, we had a baby and decided the Palisades seemed the perfect place to raise a family. That was almost 21 years ago. So most of my adult life has been lived in the Palisades. Both of my kids went to Marquez. While at Marquez, my daughter’s teacher recommended I take her to the local Kumon Math and Reading center for math help. This ended up leading me to eventually open my own center in the Village after the old center closed its doors.
How long have you lived or worked here — and what do you love most about it?
21 years. I love the small town feel in such a big city, the laid back people, and the beach!
Tell us about your work or your passion — past, present, or future. What lights you up?
I’ve always worked with kids – really since I was a kid myself. Watching kids make little breakthroughs is so rewarding.
Tell us a little about your family, community or what “home” means to you.
My daughter is 22, has graduated college and now lives in Oregon. My son is 19 and is going to SMC this fall. I recently remarried in 2023, so my husband is a newer resident of town. I’m grateful he got to enjoy it before the fire.
What’s something unique or special about the Palisades that you’ve experienced firsthand?
Definitely walking through the village and getting stopped 5 times on the way to grab a coffee by friends or clients. That amazing feeling that everywhere you go you see a familiar face.
Community Favorites
Is/Was there a local business that makes you feel nostalgic or rooted here?
I couldn’t name just one. I lived here long enough that a got to spend time in the Palisades pre Caruso and there was so much to love about the old town. I love that so many businesses are owned by locals. That was special.
Who’s the most interesting or inspiring person you’ve met here in the Palisades?
I just couldn’t name one. I was a member and former president of the Pacific Palisades Woman’s club. I met some really amazing women in that club. Older women who were like mentors and peers who were raising their kids like me. Those years were some of my favorite because those women were all very inspiring.
Fire Reflection
What stands out most from your experience?
Just the sheer magnitude of it all. That in the course of 12 hours my whole world – our whole world – got flipped on its edge and nothing would ever be the same again. It really has made me so grateful for every good day that I’ve had since. Because you just never know when you can lose everything. I was lucky enough to have my home spared. But I lost my business on Via De La Paz. I was a month shy of celebrating 10 years in business – teaching more than 1400 local kids. Crazy that it all could disappear in a day.
Was there someone — a neighbor, local hero, or group — that really made a difference for you during or after the fires?
I had a lot of help those first few weeks. So many people stepped up to offer help. My staff started a GoFundMe and I was shocked by the generosity of friends and client and strangers. There were also so many neighbors in the Highlands that stayed and put out spot fires those first couple days. I know it was because of their bravery that our townhouse complex survived. There’s just so many people to be grateful for.
What did the experience teach you about the Palisades or about yourself?
I knew I was a strong woman before – but this fire taught me that I am so much more capable than I even knew. I managed to keep my center running the entire time. I ran around the west side delivering homework, mailing it across the state…zooming with kids who were across town. And three months after the fire on April 7, I opened in a new location. I’m now called Kumon Math and Reading Center of Brentwood-Palisades on Wilshire Blvd. I couldn’t bear to lose the Palisades name so I kept it.
A Few Fun Ones
What advice would you give to others — in life, work, or being a good neighbor?
Don’t second guess generosity – give – of yourself, your time, your resources – it all comes back to you in some way.
What’s something about you that would surprise most people?
People who know me know this – but I am obsessed with roller skating. I skate at the beach every day that I get the chance. It is my favorite thing in the world.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I won’t even pretend to guess – this fire has taught me that anything can happen. I’m sure I’ll still be teaching in some way. It’s my calling and my passion and I can’t imagine life without teaching.
