When I was in my 20s, I was certain I would be a college professor. Instead, I had a long career in technology. When I was just over 60, I was laid off, I was able to renew my teaching certificate from nearly 20 years ago. I have had this amazing opportunity to teach Middle School Science in a school of predominantly Hispanic students. Teaching my passion for learning, an avenue for discovery, and support for their dreams, brings so much fulfillment.

My most memorable experience is more than once, it is when I have been able to see a student light up when he or she finally realizes that they are intelligent! I cannot begin to express how much it means to encourage young people to have pride in themselves and learn to back up their beliefs and opinions with evidence. I see myself as teaching our young people to think!

I will use as much as possible to invest in my classroom and encourage my school and district to match funds to remodel my standard, carpeted, classroom with a science lab. I will continue to contribute to Coats for Kids, which has allowed me to help supply much-needed coats to our students through Knights of Columbus.