I was born and raised in Pahala, Hawaii. I attended Ka'u High and Pahala Elementary School. After graduating from high school, I went on to attend University of Hawaii at Manoa where I earned my Bachelor's in Education degree and 5th year professional certificate. Following my college graduation, I taught sixth graders in Waianae for six years before relocating back to the Big Island. Upon returning, I taught a couple of years at Na'alehu School and then transferred to Kea'au Middle. I have one son. I enjoy watching University of Hawaii football games and spending time with family.