When I was 12 years old, I grew up in a rural area. About 1/2 a mile down the road, lived a 19 yr. old who was inflicted at birth with Muscular Dystrophy. I befriended him and taught him how to communicate using his foot with a pencil in his toes and taught him the alphabet. At that moment, I knew that God was telling me to become a teacher. I majored in Special Education and taught Special Education children all grades for 25 years. Then Inclusion happened! I currently teach 8th grade Reading.

Creating a Butterfly Garden outside of my classroom. It was magnificent to teach my students the importance of nature and Monarch butterflies. I maintained the garden with my students learning about metamorphosis, and the beauty of nature. We raised over 200 chrysalis' and then released them. "IMPACTING" a student that TATOOED my name on his head years after I taught him due to helping him with an issue!

If I was a recipient of this award, I would utilize funds to rebuild my "Butterfly Garden," at school. It needs milkweed plants, top soil and Butterfly plants. I also would start a college fund for my 4 year old granddaughter. My husband and I have not financially been able to take a vacation, due to caring for his mom's needs and assisting my son's family. It would be amazing to be able to finally be able to get away. I survived cancer less then one year ago, and 30 year Breast Cancer Survivor!