Since fourth grade, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. In high school, there were two teachers who cultivated my love for teaching: Mrs. Johnson and Mrs. Tangen. Mrs. Johnson had some characteristics I really admire and strive to emulate in my ministry of teaching. Her energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and she really motivated her students to learn. Her ability to build rapport with and a sense of community among her students was amazing. My other teaching role model was Mrs. Tangen. She was the type of person who treated everyone with respect and would do everything in her power to meet the needs of her students. Despite adversity, she remained positive always, with kindness and a smile for all. She loved her students in big and small ways. She was the icing on the cake. I have three boys, two proud alumni of Aquinas Catholic Schools and one current student. I am blessed that they have been given this opportunity to learn through a faith-based curriculum with high expectations. In my spare time, I enjoy going to ball games, fishing, boating, reading, and spending time with my family.