Being a 1st grade teacher opened my heart and broadened my mind. I have always believed that I am open-minded, and have consciously practiced patience, but that was tested when I was put into a room with 25 little people - each with their own story. Every day, I was challenged - to be patient, to be better, to be the teacher my students deserve. My students, and all students, are my constant reminder of why I have always wanted to be a teacher. I want to make a difference by creating a safe and fun learning environment for every student, building a lasting bond with them, and helping each student recognize his/her full potential and flourish.

Changing grades midyear has taught me to be flexible. These last 2 school years came with many, often sudden, changes. With changing grades I had to quickly adapt, become part of new grade level teams, and learn new curriculum and assessments quickly.

Being a 4th and 5th grade teacher taught me a different kind of patience and understanding. The older students that I have encountered this year are more aware of certain things that are going on, such as their parents' divorce or a grandparent passing away. They have talked back to me in frustration and have turned in blank assignments because, "I was busy playing Fortnite."

Watching these children slowly grow into older versions of themselves and struggle with different issues outside of academics has reminded me that sometimes we all need a break, and our well-being and that of our students sometimes comes first, because without it we cannot expect our students to reach their full potential.

"It matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be."

-Albus Dumbledore