Lauren has worked as an elementary teacher since 2023.  She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a minor in English as a Second Language.  She taught 5th & 6th grade reading overseas for a year in Israel/Palestine with Palestinian students who were 97% Muslim.  The past 8 years, she taught at Velma Penny Elementary where she taught 1st grade for 6 years and 2nd grade for 2 years.  She is married to her husband Chase.  They have a sweet goldendoodle named Ellie who’s passion in life is snuggling and chasing the water hose.  Lauren enjoys traveling, reading and all things outdoors including hiking and camping. She and Chase are National Parks enthusiasts and currently attend Grace Community Church at UB.