Having grown up in Sandia Park and now raising her own family in Tijeras, she is honored to serve the East Mountain community that has shaped her life.
Dr. McDonough earned her B.S. in Mathematics Education, M.A. in Teacher Leadership, and Ph.D. in Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education from the University of New Mexico. Her doctoral research focused on teacher retention in rural schools and the factors that help educators thrive in their communities. Entering her eighth year in education, she is passionate about both student learning and professional growth.
Dr. McDonough became a mathematics teacher because she loves math and loves people. She believes students learn best in classrooms built on respect, connection, and a shared commitment to growth. She is passionate about helping students build confidence, see the relevance of mathematics in their lives, and develop deep understanding through problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration.
Outside of school, Dr. McDonough enjoys spending time with her husband, Erik, and their four children, Lily, Kylie, Dixie, and Reid. Their family raises cattle, goats, chickens, horses, and an ever-changing collection of cats and dogs. When she is not teaching, she enjoys reading, spending time in her church community, and exploring New Mexico with her family, often from the seat of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. She is honored to join the East Mountain High School family and looks forward to supporting students as they learn, grow, and achieve their goals.
