I wish to thank the following people for their help and inspiration over the past years.
Dr. Jan Duncan: You have truly been "The Wind Beneath My Wings" this past year. You have been so much more than a professor. Your dedication, professionalism, and caring attitude sets you apart. It makes you an example of the type of teacher I want to become. For all the many, many things you've done for me (too numerous to name) I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Dr. Doris McGowan: You were my first advisor, mentor, and shoulder to cry on. You made me realize that it's never too late to start a new career. Thank you for making the past two years such wonderful ones. I couldn't have done it without you.
Dr. Posey and the Department of Education Professors and Staff: Thank you for being accessable. Thank you for your dedication and caring attitudes. Returning to college after twenty-three years was a frightening experience, but you made it so much easier. Thank you, also, for your concern during my illness and all your assistance since. Thank you.
Mrs. Tracy Gordon and Jacqueline Judge: Since your classroom was my first directed teaching experience, I will always remember you. Thank you for turning your classroom upside down to accomodate me and my wheelchair. Even with our "misunderstandings" I still consider our time together a wonderful learning experience. Thank you, Mrs. Gordon, for your insights and mentoring. Your classroom is great fun! Mrs. Judge, thank you for all the errands and "heads-ups".
Mrs. Gail Campbell and Nikki Ramos: Coming to your classroom from second grade was like stepping back onto dry land from a rocking boat. Your classroom is so calm! I wasn't sure how I would handle being in math class all day (since I don't really like math), but you made it so easy. Thank you for your caring and concern. Your teaching style is my style. You have really given me a lot of ideas. Mrs. Ramos, thank you for all you've done for me. I appreciate all the errands, help with lunch, remembering three sections of student's names, and your concern. Thank you both for everything.
Mr. Rick Tillotson and the Sherman Avenue Elementary Staff: Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your school this semester. Sherman Avenue has such a positive spirit about it and I know that it comes from you. My direct teaching experience has been a wonderful experience at Sherman Avenue. I will always remember your concern, but that being in a wheelchair made no difference as far as my qualifications. Thank you for that.
