I believe that education is a profession that involves continuous growth and development to meet the challenges and ever-changing demands which face students and teachers; therefore, I strive to continue learning to enhance my teaching abilities as well as remain current with new teaching strategies. I have conducted various workshops in the private and public realm to train teachers on best practices in the classroom. Additionally, I served as an Adjunct Professor in the Darden College of Education at Old Dominion University through 2013. As the 2007 recipient of the Betty Yarborough Outstanding Graduate in Reading Education from Old Dominion University, I understand the importance of obtaining good, quality education and the importance of high achievement in academics. Furthermore, as an experienced educator, business owner, and literacy specialist, I have worked with diverse populations of students and colleagues. I have the ability to adapt my teaching strategies to cater to the varying academic and emotional needs of all my students and teachers. I instill confidence and a sense of responsibility within each individual by setting standards, developing collaborative learning, encouraging positive social interaction, and ensuring a safe and rewarding learning environment. One of my strengths lies in my ability to take on increasing leadership responsibilities with the goal of shaping policy and implementing the curriculum, along with helping the community. You will find me to be a very flexible and dynamic individual who is committed to encouraging and inspiring effective instruction by laying a foundation of research-based knowledge, supporting the use of proven tools, and developing leadership through my instruction and knowledge. I am confident in my ability to stimulate and motivate individuals towards personal growth and achievement; therefore, I have been labeled as team oriented and known to work well with all walks of life.