Hammontree Challenge - About the Teacher

I am thrilled to share the Challenge Program with your child this year! I am a graduate of Furman University with a B.A. in elementary education and early childhood education. I am certified in gifted and talented education and have a Master's degree in gifted education from Converse University. I have taught 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades. This is my 23rd year teaching and 11th year teaching in the Challenge Program for gifted and talented students! I am also an adjunct professor of gifted endorsement courses for Converse University and the Lead GT Teacher for the GCS GT Program. I have a passion for helping gifted students to love learning and reach their potential.

My husband and I have two sons- Will is in his last year of law school at USC Law School. He and his wife, Susannah, live in Columbia. Ben is a senior at Wofford College. We enjoy spending time at the beach and with our family, including our two Collies- Hondo and Magnum. In my free time, I love to read a variety of books, watch old movies, and sew.
I am looking forward to an exciting and adventurous year!

Hondo

Magnum

My Mission Statement

My work is produced by belief that your child can learn; my labor is prompted by love for children and a love of seeing that spark of learning ignited; and my endurance is inspired by the hope that your child will reach his or her full potential!

I became a gifted and talented teacher because I love children and teaching and have a passion for gifted education. I believe our children are truly a gift, entrusted to us but for only a short time, and gifts and talents should be nurtured. I find great reward in seeing the spark curiosity in their eyes and challenging students to great achievements. My mission as a teacher is to guide each child with kindness, respect, and high expectations, to become ethical, productive leaders of tomorrow, capable of high reasoning, critical thinking, creativity, and achievement of excellence.