As I stand here tonight, words cannot begin to describe just how grateful I am. Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of having a classroom of my own—a space where I could make a difference in the lives of my students. My desire to be a teacher never wavered, and when I accepted a teaching position at Lake Park Elementary 5 years ago, packed up my car with all my belongings, and drove from Ohio to Naples, I knew my dream was coming true. What I didn’t know was just how much that one decision would change my life forever.
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by some of the most inspiring and supportive colleagues and mentors anyone could ask for. Their guidance has shaped me into the educator I am today, and for that, I am deeply thankful. To my parents—thank you for always being just a phone call away, for showing up when I moved classrooms, changed grade levels, or needed a helping hand. And to my husband, Jack, —thank you for understanding that teaching is both beautiful and challenging, and for supporting me through it all, emotionally and financially, as I poured my heart into creating a nurturing space for my students.
Each morning, when I open my classroom door and welcome my students with hugs and smiles, I’m reminded that my childhood dream didn’t just come true—it became my purpose. As we sing, chant, cheer each other on, and build memories together, I cherish every single moment—just as I know my students do. More than anything, I hope they feel safe, loved, and truly seen when they walk into our classroom. Because to me, that’s the most lasting impact I can ever make…