My planning period lasts until about 11:30.

Each class represents a different challenge. For instance, this semester I have public speaking first block, an honors English class second block. and a standard English class during the fourth block, so I have students from all ability levels. Usually my kids are motivated, but if not, I do my best to.

I've always loved to learn. I've always enjoyed school, and it might have gotten me into trouble with my peers and that sort of nature. A lot of it was both my parents were in the field of education. With a lot of parents that are teachers, they rarely suggest that their child go into teaching, because it is a difficult occupation. Their example really motivated me to become a teacher.

One (honor) that pleased me particularly was when I was nominated and won the Top 10 Percent Teacher of the Year for Pigeon Forge High School. I appreciated that honor. A lot of kids forget that you're even their teacher and in your class.

Those are two hard-working ladies right there.

I really enjoy teaching in the classroom. I don't know if I can teach the same grade or the same subject matter for the next 30 years - I'm not necessarily that type of person. I recently graduated from UT with a masters in education, administration and supervision, so it's opened up the possibility of moving on to becoming a principal or serving in some other administrative capacity. I'll always be in education in some way.