College
I am a 2002 graduate of Kent State University where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education. The Kent State Physical Education Program is one of the best programs in the nation where professors take their teaching methods very seriously. I am extremely thankful for the opportunity to become part of their program. In December 2007, I earned my Master's of Education degree in Instructional Technology at Kent State.

Teaching Career
This year will mark my seventh year at Henry Defer Intermediate and will be teaching at Defer full time. I feel extremely fortunate to have an opportunity to work with such great students, staff, and building facilities. I believe that Physical Education is one of the most important subjects because you learn about the importance of living a healthy, active lifestyle. How important is anything else when you do not have good health? Physical Education is no longer a blow off "gym" class where every student receives an "A." Instead, Physical Education is an active class where students earn grades by learning about the importance of healthy habits and behaviors, as well as, sport skills and concepts. I feel very strongly about the subject I teach as any teacher should. Please send me an email if you have any questions or concerns at cskeels@rockets.sparcc.org.

Personal Life
I got married in September of 2006 to a great 5th grade teacher in Aurora. We also have a baby girl, named Kiara, who was born on April 9, 2008. We spent the majority of our summer working around the house. This summer taught me how much more difficult it is to do things with a little one:) We did find time to take a mini vacation to Maumee Bay, Ohio where we played racquetball, cornhole, golf, ping pong, rode bikes and jet skis, fished, and relaxed. We also went white water rafting with some friends, including Ms. Hepburn!

Thank you for supporting the Defer Physical Education Program!