Whether I am in a classroom or lunchroom, on the playground or walking through the hallways there are daily reminders of our students’ intellectual strengths and compassion for others. Their enthusiasm and excitement is contagious. I am blessed to spend each working day in Glencoe School District with incredibly talented students, a high caliber staff, and committed school community.

I love coming to school each day and feeling the energy that students bring to the learning process. I love seeing their self-efficacy skills develop during the course of the year and am encouraged by just how perceptive they really are. As my students grow into fine young men and women, I look forward to seeing how their dreams become reality.

I like working here because of the supportive staff. Working with the special education team has been a wonderful experience because they offer me guidance and are always available. I look forward to coming to work every day to a fun, caring environment.

It is difficult to find just the right words to describe why I love being a teacher. This profession allows me the incredible and rare opportunity to get to know a community of children and adults on a personal level. As educators, we are able to build relationships with the families in our community and share experiences that help foster each child's social, emotional, and academic development. As the children rush into the school each morning, I am reminded of how I felt as a child walking into school each day. I remember how I could not wait to get into the classroom to see my friends and teachers. Each day brought new experiences, new learning opportunities, and a sense of belonging that provided a safe environment in which I could explore and develop as an individual. Perhaps that is what I love the most about being a teacher. I have the chance to provide my students with the support and encouragement they need to recognize their potential and believe that anything is possible.

Teaching for me is very rewarding. It is the moment you see a student not just completing an assignment but doing it with enthusiasm and his or her best effort. Inspiring young minds to think for themselves is a true reward. The bottom line is that I am making a difference in someone’s life, and helping others actually makes me a happier person. The best parts of teaching are the surprises that arise and the ability to laugh at oneself on a daily basis.