I have recently retired from 34 years of teaching. My professional background includes teaching 4-10 year old scholars, providing professional support for teachers in the elementary school, and supporting schools in their mission to grow parent and family engagement. I'm recently retired and am going back to what I love to do. ART, PAINTING, & LEARNING! In my early years as a pre-college learner I was a National Distinguished Scholar in the Arts in the state of Maryland. I decided not to pursue a degree in Art, but to pursue a degree in Elementary Education. Throughout my years as a teacher, I would often accompany my class to Art, and create art with them. I also included a lot of art in my first and second grade classrooms. Art is very important to me and I know that it is something that really brings out the spark in many young scholars. I hope to continue to encourage and enhance that spark in young learners. I also teach classes for young readers to encourage a life long love of reading and literacy. My professional background includes over 10 years in the primary elementary grades as well as 20 years as a professional literacy coach for teachers and staff. My most recent years include parent engagement duties at the district level where I supported staff, students, and families. I believe that all children can learn and my own love of learning, reading, and literature comes through in all of my interactions with students and families. I believe that reading is the most important skill that a person can possess and I believe that the process should be fun and engaging.