Hi, my name is Gretchen Cook!

I was born and rasied right here in Oregon. I grew up in the Beaverton school district and attended Bethany and Oak Hills elementary schools, Meadow Park junior high and Sunset High School. I have one sister that is 3 years younger. I was very active and played many sports, but found my passion in swimming. I continued my swimming career at San Jose State University where I recieved a full ride scholarship and earned my Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Development. After college I moved back to Portland. I coached swimming at Beaverton High School for one season and loved it! I look forward to coaching again someday. I began working at a KinderCare in the spring of 2002. There I started teaching in a 2 year old program where I spent 2 years. I moved into a 4 year old preschool room where I discovered that I wanted to teach elementary school. I then became the program manager. I enjoyed being in a management role and helping teachers of all age groups implement curriculum into their classrooms. I was accepted to the Pacific University MAT program in the Spring of 2006 and look forward to graduating in May of '07 and having a classroom of my own!
Currently I live in Beaverton with one of my best friends, Darcie and the love of my life Andy!
In my free time I enjoy hanging out with family and friends. I love anything outdoors; hiking, camping, running, boating, and mountain sports! I love listening to music and being introduced to new artists. I enjoy going on small trips and hope tobe able to travel abroad in the future. I grew up around animals and love dogs and cats. My parents have 3 large dogs and I have one fluffy orange cat named Milo.
When I'm not doing homework or running around outdoors I love relaxing and watching movies.

Sunset in Maui