I am a graduate of The American University in Washington, D.C. I have a degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education with a minor in Psychology. In addition, I acquired 30 hours of Masters courses in Psychiatric Social Work. I taught in the D.C. Public School System for 22 years and retired in 2014. Teaching has been my since childhood. Playing "School" with my friends was a favorite summer past time. As I watched my mother teach, I thought it to be the most important job in the world. Observing the learning process is so rewarding for me. I love the way children's eyes light up when they have achieved a goal. Children are our future and my job as a teacher has always been one of giving children the tools that they need to succeed. I believe that emotional tools are as important as academics. Children need to be shown their strengths which builds their confidence. I greatly enjoy reading and I want to help as many students as I can to enjoy it too. I love music and I always incorporate it in my lessons. A tune stays in your memory for years and when coupled with facts, you have it for a lifetime.