Words of Inspiration

"If you live long enough, you will make mistakes.  But if you learn from them, you'll be a better person. It's how you handle adversity, not how it affects you. The main thing is never quit, never quit, never quit".
-President William "Bill" Clinton

"Character is a journey, not a destination".
-President William "Bill" Clinton

"When a teacher tries to teach something to the entire class at the same time, chances are, one-third of the kids already know it...one-third will get it...and the remaining third won't. So two-thirds of the children are wasting their time".
-Lilian Katz

"My passion is now the same as it was before...if not greater than ever".
-Louise Derman-Sparks

Personal Childhood Web

My Mother

My mom has been an educator all my life, and has even worked in the same schools I attended as a child. She has nurtured my love for education and passion for children throughout my lifetime. She even operated an in-home childcare center for many years and allowed me to work as an employee to gain work experience. I will always give credit to my mom for my interest in the early childhood field. She has always placed a powerful emphasis on education and being present in our lives as a support system.

My Dad

"Even when you've done your best, you still haven't done enough"

My dad has always motivated me to work harder and to push myself beyond what I only thought I was capable of. As early as I can remember my dad has always done whatever he could to provide for my family, even working 60+ hours a week to make ends meet. My dad always taught me that your best is still never good enough and there is always more that can be done. I used to think that he was just being hard on me, however, I now know how motivating these thoughts and ideas can be. Without his extra pushing, I know I would not have reached the level of success I have today.

Ms. Williams

Ms. Williams was my 2nd and 3rd grade teacher, and also my favorite teacher growing up. I have always carried with me the love that Ms. Williams had for me in her classroom, so much that I still remember her vividly as an adult. Ms. Williams was the first person other than my mother to realize that I was a gifted child. I often acted out in class because I was bored or the work just did not challenge me enough. Ms. Williams saw beyond my behavior and noted that I was a one of the most highly-intelligent students she'd ever come across. She fought for me to be tested into the gifted program and behold, my results were above target in all areas. Ms. Williams demonstrates just how important it is for educators to know their students and be willing to go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure their success.

A Little about the Author...

As a Young Child...

My Favorite Children's Book...

I love the story "Quackers" by Liz Wong and due to the underlying message. In the story a kitten that was raised by a flock of ducks, thinks he's a duck too. The book teaches children about acceptance, fitting in, and being yourself.

"Tell me and I forget. Show me and I remember. Involve me and I understand".