# data[].attributes.body
I grew up as a military child so I spent a lot of my life moving back and forth, making new friends, and switching school. Being a military child has taught me how to be adaptive to big changes that happen throughout my life. I never thought I would be a teacher until my junior year of high school when I took an early childhood class that required us to volunteered in a classroom for about an hour every so often. During that time in the classroom, I fell in love with teaching. From there on I continued to volunteer in classrooms and complete internships and field placements. I knew once I started college what my major was going to be right away and I have made great strides in reaching my goals throughout the years.

# data[].attributes.body
I was born in NY but raised in NJ. I was the first in my family to attend and graduate college. I graduated with my Bachelor of Social Work degree and then received my K-6 teaching license. I worked with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders through ABA therapy for a few years. I got married and moved to NC five years ago and became a teacher assistant with the plan of having children soon. Life took a turn, and I got divorced and decided it was time to teach and be able to support myself. My mom instilled the importance of education in me since I was a child. I had great connections with teachers throughout my schooling. I love to learn, and I want my students to love the lifelong journey of learning.

# data[].attributes.body
1. My teenage years still feel like a blur because of a large influx of trauma I faced (and still deal with) from ages 14-20. It started with my dad's double cancer diagnosis, and along the way, a number of other incidents happened that I don't feel comfortable talking about. I don't have many good memories from this time, except for four teachers/professors that showed me grace. This shaped me into having a lot of compassion, patience, empathy, and sympathy for others. It has also made me a good listener.
2. I learned I wanted to become a teacher after starting a job at the YMCA in my area, and knew from then on i wanted to work with kids for a living.
3. In coping and growing up. I have turned to listening to Metal music and rock music, and taking care of plants. they are not hobbies/likes I share with anyone, but that is okay with me.

# data[].attributes.headline
1.) I love music. Listening to music helps me get through the toughest and lowest of times. 2.) I come from a very large family. My father has 12 siblings and my mother has 4 sibling. All of y aunts and uncles have atleast 2 children except for two. My father had 12 kids. I am very close to some of my siblings but there is a huge age gap with some of them. My father passed away when I was 11. I am very close with my other, she is one of my best friends. 3.) I have 2 kids and i am divorced.

# data[].attributes.subject
1.) I love music. Listening to music helps me get through the toughest and lowest of times. 2.) I come from a very large family. My father has 12 siblings and my mother has 4 sibling. All of y aunts and uncles have atleast 2 children except for two. My father had 12 kids. I am very close to some of my siblings but there is a huge age gap with some of them. My father passed away when I was 11. I am very close with my other, she is one of my best friends. 3.) I have 2 kids and i am divorced.

# data[].attributes.body
1. I am from Long Island NY but call North Carolina home (for now). I have 2 wonderful dogs, Turble a mini pin, and Coco a teacup yorkie.
2. I live for the water. I am a former USA head swim coach. I travel as much as possible, specifically to Cozumel Mexico where I love to dive and explore.
3. I am very independent and focused on my happiness.

# data[].attributes.body
1.) I grew up in a small town outside of Pittsburgh, PA and I am the oldest of 2 children.  My father passed away unexpectedly my senior year in high school when I was 17.  It was through the grace and understanding of my teachers that I was able to pass high school that year.
2.) I married very young and moved to NC in 1999.  Together we have 2 wonderful children.  I was pregnant with our first when I graduated from UNCW and I put my teaching career on hold to be a full time mom.  Unfortunately, things between my husband and I did not work out, but we are still good friends and love our children.
3.) I have been connected to the school I am working at for 7 years and I am excited to have my own classroom there!

# data[].attributes.body
1. Lesson learned: People come and go and to always love yourself and put yourself first.
2. My dreams are to teach for a long time and continue to grow as an individual.
3. Goals: Want to become more positive and see this beautiful world we live in.

# data[].attributes.body
-I was born and raised in Onslow County. I was the first person in my immediate family that went to college and actually graduate with a Bachelor degree.
-I knew right out of high school that I wanted to be a teacher but I let others talk me out of my dream. I was working a regular 9-5 job and I decided that it wasn't what I wanted to do, so I went back to school and finally graduated in May at the age of 30. I learned to not let others stand in the way of what you want, you are your biggest cheerleader.
-I am a mother so this is the biggest and best thing that I have taught my kids. They know from watching me that age doesn't matter and to always go after what you want in life no matter what anyone says. My kids are what gives me my drive.

# data[].attributes.body
I will turn 40 two weeks from today. This new journey in teaching has been a dream of mine since I was a child.

I have been a single Mom for most of my life.

Sports has played a important part of our family life and been the center of our family.

# data[].attributes.body
I have two beautiful children that have been my world! One was born with physical disabilities and the other struggles with emotional and learning disabilities.
I originally went to school for Elementary Education, Special Education, and Preschool. However, after having my first child, it became clear that I needed to drop out (in my final semester of my degree) to take care of my child. I did, however, go back and finish a 4 year degree in 1 calendar year 9 years later.
I grew up in a broken household but they were always there for me, so I was able to achieve despite that.

# data[].attributes.body
1. I was born and raised in NC, but I have moved to different cities within. I lived with my mom, due to my parents being divorced.
2. I graduated from Croatan High School in 2017. I was apart of their FFA and Vocal for all four years of school. My last year I was the President of the FFA chapter.
3. I was the first person in my family to physically graduate from college, UNCW.

# data[].attributes.body
1) I grew up living with my parents and one older sister. We are a very close family.
2) I have always enjoyed school and have always wanted to be a teacher.
3) I married my high school sweet heart that I have known since second grade.

# data[].attributes.headline
I did not have the best mom growing up so I graduated high school in 3 years and went to college at 17 years old. There were so many influential adults in  my life that helped me be successful and feel loved while I was growing up. I hope to be a teacher that loves every one of her students as her own and makes every single one feel seen. I have a dog who is my best friend. I am getting married in November and I'm really excited!!

# data[].attributes.subject
I did not have the best mom growing up so I graduated high school in 3 years and went to college at 17 years old. There were so many influential adults in  my life that helped me be successful and feel loved while I was growing up. I hope to be a teacher that loves every one of her students as her own and makes every single one feel seen. I have a dog who is my best friend. I am getting married in November and I'm really excited!!

# data[].attributes.body
1. I am a native Texan and am extremely close with my family back in Texas. I love my sweet nephews. I went to a small private school where I met my husband who is originally from Kansas. I definitely have southern roots.
2. I believe in the power of positivity and spreading kindness. Always look in the mirror before reacting.
3. I experience my first loss of a love one my senior year of high school. My boyfriend was murdered and it really made me grow up quickly.

# data[].attributes.body
1) Being a military spouse has made me flexible.
2) I have four kids, 12, 16 year old twins, and 19.
3) I have lived in Okinawa, Japan for 6 years.

# data[].attributes.body
1.) I was born in Jacksonville, NC and raised in Richlands, NC as an Asian/African American female.  As an only child with working parents, I had to learn to be very independent from a young age.  As a child, I was very fond of learning and would play "teacher" with my friends.  I always knew teaching was my calling.
2.) I dual-enrolled with Coastal Carolina Community College during my senior year of high school and graduated with my Associates Degree one year after graduating high school.  I transferred to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington where I received my Bachelor's in Elementary Education.
3.) After all of my life experiences, I have come a long way. I want to encourage all of my students to be the best version of themselves and that they can be anything they want to be.

# data[].attributes.body
1. I am a retired military man that has always wanted to be a teacher, since the 5th grade. After, thinking about where I could be best utilized and I felt middle grades students were underserved with a strong male role model.
2. I recently graduated from UNCW in middle grades education in math and science.
3. My goal is to push myself to be better then many of my teachers that I had growing up that told me " I would not amount to anything". I'm here to push students to be better then even they think they can be. If I can influence a students or students to better the world my cup will be full.

# data[].attributes.body
1. I am number two child of six. I grew up mostly in the Onslow County area. I attended fourteen schools by the time I graduated high school. The most influential teacher in my school path passed away a few years ago and that hurt a lot because I knew I wouldn't have him to lean on when I needed him as I began my teaching career. The man I am married to now we met and dated in 2007 parted ways and reunited later and married. So, the saying "If you love someone set them free, if it's love it meant to be." is very true.
2. I have always wanted to be a teacher since I was five years old. I decided not to pursue it until I was on the later side of my thirties. This would be a choice that I think has been one of the best ones yet. In between graduating high school and becoming a teacher I joined and served in the United States Navy for five years; getting out because my family had to come first then as well as today, worked customer service, some more customer service and I have even cleaned motel rooms with my mom. That was a great job because my mom worked with me.
3. My why is because I wanted to see the gap between general education and exceptional education close more and more each school year. One of the things I am completely proud of on a personal best is that my five year plan while becoming a teacher was to be the EC Teacher at Silverdale Elementary and a year and a half into it I succeeded at my goal.

# data[].attributes.body
1. I was born into a military family and moved around a few times. I've lived here since the 5th grade so Jacksonville is where I call home. I got married to my wonderful husband in January and we have added a sweet little golden retriever to our family!
2. I didn't know that I wanted to be a teacher until my junior year of college. I could never find a major that fit me, until I found education. Walking into a classroom for the first time truly changed my outlook on what a career could look like! I was truly happy going to teach kindergarten everyday during my internship and knew in my heart that it was the place for me!!
3. I can finally say that I will have my own kindergarten class this year!!! Hard work pays off!

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-I was in foster care as an infant and adopted when I was four. I have attempted connection with my bio mother, but she has failed to attempt to maintain the relationship. At this point I have cut ties with her. I do not know who my bio father is, and neither does my bio mother.
-Working in the school system previously showed me that there are ways to help children psychologically and emotionally aside from being a social worker or psychologist in the nonprofit world....Now I am a teacher, which I never thought or considered before.
-Went from divorced with 2 children to married with 6 children. Adjusting with all my children and learning to live and love together as well as learning how the kids had been impacted due to prior events gave me new insight on how children perceive and process things. Also, allowed me to see the impacts of the traumas they had all gone through prior to combining families and what worked best with each child and how they were able to cope and move forward.

# data[].attributes.body
I am from a small town in Ohio. The type of town where you needed a certain last name to mean something. I did not have that last name. My parents split when I was 4. I was unfairly used as their "mediator". I developed very bad an toxic habits/character traits trying to fit into my two very separate lifestyles. Mom wanted me to be a version of her, and dad wanted me to not be like mom. Very confusing. Then my dad remarried a very dominant and overpowering woman. But she brought with her my two step sisters and later two half brothers. I was completely alone until I was 12 and they came into the picture. Since having them I have learned that Its okay to be my own person. Then in 2015 I met my now husband. He taught me to forgive and forget, he taught me that a stronger person would push for what she believed in without worrying about how others reacted. I can only control my decisions and reactions. So that is what I focus on.

# data[].attributes.body
1. I developed a love of music when it allowed to express myself, and feel in love with orchestra after struggling with my identity. I know how important that community can be to kids in the same position
2. I went to Appalachian State original to major in Music Therapy and voice; I didn't make the cut for voice and got in on violin, then ended up in the Ed program where I stayed until I graduated this past May. I know what it's like for things to not turn out the way you planned, and the incredible journey that can lead you on.
3. I have an unfortunately close relationship with grief and loss; My grandmother passed away when I was 18, a friend of mine when I was a junior in College, and my dad this past April. It greatly increased my sense of empathy.

# data[].attributes.body
I have 2 kids...ages 16 and 12. I was a military wife of 17 years. Received an Organizational Management degree and a Social Science with an education concentration degree while being a stay at home mom. When my youngest started kindergarten I returned back to the work force. Worked in early child hood education for 4 years and have worked as a elementary TA for OCS the past 3 years. Separation/divorce brought me back to my dream of obtaining my teaching license. I currently am part of the Residency Program to obtain my teaching license. I am excited, nervous, scared, and happy all at the same time. It has been a rough and tough past couple of years, but have learned my worth and nothing is going to stop me now from getting what I want and truly deserve.

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1. I was born and raised in Richmond, VA and graduated from Shenandoah Conservatory, which gave me great experiences like travelling to Austria (in the filming location for The Sound of Music!) with the women's choir. I graduated Summa 🤬 Laude, something I didn't think was possible and I'm so proud of myself for my hard work.
2. My grandparents both passed away this past fall, and my grandmother was a fantastic piano player. I take their love with me and knowing they would be proud of me keeps me going. Never take the love around you for granted and always carry it with you.
3. I am a calm, patient person and use that to my advantage in the classroom. I've never raised my voice at a child and don't see the need to when talking calmly gets the job done easier and more effectively.

# data[].attributes.body
I am originally from a small town in central Wisconsin. I graduated high school with just about the same people that I started Kindergarten with. Everyone knew everyone in my town, and although that was frustrating at times, it built a great sense of community knowing that you always had someone.
I then moved to a college where I was the only one from my graduating class. I no longer had any of those familiar faces to look to. This was scary at times, but it allowed me to step outside my comfort zone and find who I was as a person outside of my small town.
I then studied abroad halfway through college where I was in a foreign country all by myself. I didn't know anything about the culture, I didn't know anyone that lived there, and my Italian was sub-par at best. Pushing myself into this new culture was terrifying, but it also made me trust myself and be more comfortable in new and unfamiliar situations.
The move to North Carolina, while frightening, was something that I had been slowly preparing myself for. I am more confident now than I every have been.

# data[].attributes.body
I am from Central Pennsylvania, and just moved to NC this past summer! My family is Irish, and is HUGE. I have over 40 first cousins.
I value music and the arts, as well as supporting all students in their educational and personal endeavors. I dream of being a great educator.  I also value the importance of the little things in life, and strive to enjoy every season I am in.
I went to Millersville University of PA for my Bachelors degree in Music Education, and fell in love with working with children. I hope to impact many lives in small ways throughout my career as an educator.

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I grew up in the small town of Carthage, North Carolina. I have wanted to be a teacher since I was 6 years old and am so excited that this part of my dream is finally coming true. I spent the most amazing 4 1/2 years at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia studying Music Education and minoring in Special Education. This experience provided me with my first time being away from my home in Carthage for any extended time and some of the most unique musical experiences that I would have never dreamed of having the honor to be a part of. I am not the same person that I was before going to college...I learned so much about teaching and about life and have grown in many personal areas. The Lord has been more faithful to me than I deserve and I can't stop thanking Him for bringing me here.

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- My parents both immigrated to the United States from different Hispanic Countries. Obtaining a good education and a degree was expected of me.  I come from a blended family (7 siblings).
- I moved from Brooklyn to upstate New York, and experienced the culture shock of my life. Learned and grew a lot in my time there.
- I am 22 years old, have my master's in literacy. Plan on teaching for some years, being a reading specialist for others, and eventually going back to school and becoming a principal ( I want to shape kind and good humans. I want to be happy)

# data[].attributes.body
I am a southern belle! Born in AL, raised in MS, and now I am living in NC- which is still the "south," but it isn't the "south south." Southern hospitality, sweet tea, and let's just face it... anything can be fried!

Some of the biggest life lessons I have learned: Always say goodbye to your loved ones when leaving. Never let your compassion affect you convictions and your convictions affect your compassion. And finally... don't give up. It gets better. I promise.

I have faced a lot of adversity in my life, but God turned my mess into my message and my test into my testimonies. I have walked through the fire many times, but I do not smell like smoke. The difficulties do not define me. I have defined them.

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I am from Hazleton, PA which is an extremely diverse city in the northeastern part of the state. I graduated from Hazleton Arear High School which has a population that is 72% ESL learners. I was raised by a single mom who happens to also be a teacher. I started my college career at The Hartt School of Music in Hartford, CT, but transferred to Penn State half way through my sophomore year. I was a saxophonist in the Penn State Blue Band and miss it everyday that passes. Before last week, I have never been in North Carolina, only have driven through it. Now I am living and teaching here all by myself and am extremely happy to be here!

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1) I got married and became a mom at 19. Since then I have been devoting my life to my family.

2) I could have pursued various fields (finished pre-med bachelors wanted to be a doctor/performed off-broadway and wanted to be an actress), but instead, spent the last 10 years raising my kids and being a wife and finding a passion in education.

3) Being a teacher, to me, means being the person I needed when I was a child.

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I was born and raised in Minnesota. I joined the Marine Corp and moved to Okinawa, Japan for my first duty station. I met my husband there and we got married and here we are 14 years later with three kiddos! While in the Marines I attended school and got my BS in Psychology. I thought I wanted to become a child psychologist and while doing emergency subbing in Washington state discovered my love for teaching!

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-I come from a family of professional musicians and was raised to believe playing music was about being "right." I got into music education because I now believe that music is not about being "right" but about connecting with other people.

- I graduated from UNC Greensboro and moved to Onslow county without knowing a single person in this area.

- I spend almost all of my free time creating, performing, or listening to music and it is the biggest aspect of my life. I want to be able to share my musical experience in a way that betters people's lives and helps to build a community.

# data[].attributes.body
1.) I am a musician that comes from a musical family. My father is a professional musician for a living and he lead me to take piano lessons when I was a child. This started my journey towards becoming a music teacher.
2.) I have struggled with anxiety and depression in college. I had struggled with anxiety for a while when I was in high school but I did not know what I was experiencing at the time. I think these experiences have encouraged me to be a better teacher that considers the different backgrounds or experiences that may be going on within my students lives.
3.) It was my middle school choir teacher that began my interest in this field at the start. I was so attached to her while also loving music, and I knew I have always loved to get to know people. The combination of meeting new people every year and getting to teach music is what brought me to the field of music education!

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1. My mother left when I was 2 years old and it has made me the mom and caregiver I am today. It has also let me thrive through divorce.
2. I grew up in the Bronx, where our public schools had nothing but great teachers!
3. My relationship with God shapes me. I know I will always have the strength thru him to carry on despite any circumstances.

# data[].attributes.body
- Ephesians 2:10
- Problem to purpose
- Ready to change lives

# data[].attributes.body
1. I became a teacher because I wanted to be the support system and advocate that students need that I felt like I did not always have when I was in school.
2. I was discouraged by a lot of people, including the professors in my education program, towards becoming an art educator, but it pushed me even more to become one
3. I grew up in poverty and that is also something that pushed me to become a teacher, so that I can bring awareness and have students know that there is someone who they can relate to and understand what they are going through.

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1.  I am the granddaughter of a sharecropper.  My father desegregated three schools in his lifetime.  He served as a Marine for 22 years and I served in the Navy for 20 years.  We both dedicated our lives to our country for a greater chance to achieve a higher learning.
2.  Never give up.  Always believe in yourself, so that you can help others to believe in themselves.  I want to show children in Onslow County that "big" dreams do come true.
3. Nothing is better than the opportunity to be born an American. Nothing is impossible.

# data[].attributes.body
1.  I was born in Aliquippa, PA, a small steel mill town 22 miles NW of Pittsburgh, PA.  My father was a first generation German born in Aliquippa and my mother was of English and Dutch descent from West Virginia.  The steel mill closed in 1984 and the town died.  After graduating High School in 86, I joined the Marine Corps to get away from the area and make a life for myself because there were no longer any opportunities in Aliquippa.
2.  I served 20 years in the Marine Corps and met my wife.  We have 4 children, 3 of whom have served in the military.  1 Army, 1 Navy and 1 currently in the Air Force as a drone pilot.  I retired here in Jacksonville, NC from the Marine Corps and stayed here in this area.
3. After completing my Bachelors Degree in Business with Project Management Certification in 2017, I went back and I just finished my Masters in Business Administration. I have always wanted to teach but never has the opportunity, but I have now decided I want to prepare our next generations to be prepared for life after High School and decided to go into teaching.

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-I come from a large family and joined the military to help pay for college.
-I come to teaching with the benefit of many life experiences that help me relate to the diversity of the OCS community.
-I hope to impart a passion for learning to my students. I will feel like a success if just one student returns to me and says that he/she would have dropped out of school if it wasn't for me.

# data[].attributes.body
1. I am from Dayton, Ohio and graduated from Bowling Green State University. I developed a love for traveling while studying abroad in England and teaching in China. I hope to travel to as many places as I can!

2. I knew I wanted to be a teacher my senior year of high school when I realized the impact I could have on students. This realization didn't click for me until I had the opportunity to teach English to refugees seeking Asylum in England. Education was directly related to their survival and success, and I will never forget that.

3. I moved to Topsail Island with my husband and tarantula last November and love it so far! I am so excited to start my first year of teaching with OCS.

# data[].attributes.body
I have lived in Jacksonville, North Carolina my entire life. I am one of many teachers in my family. My mom is a principal (use to be a third grade teacher), my step father was a great football coach and many of my cousins are special education teachers. I never thought I would be a teacher. After seeing the influence my parents had, I wanted to go into education and make a difference like them.

# data[].attributes.body
1. My mother is going on her 39 year of teaching. She led me to become an educator.
2. I have my master's degree in elementary education at 23 years old. I still struggle with being proud of my accomplishments and believing in myself.
3. Making students feel comfortable, safe, and included

# data[].attributes.body
1. I graduated high school in 2004 for and went to a community college on a softball scholarship. Then a few years later went to Columbus state university and graduated in 2012.
2. I have 3 children and was a stay at home mom with them for 10 years
3. I recently just found out about the lateral entry program so I am excited to start my teaching career. I hope to come day also be
able to help coach softball

# data[].attributes.body
- I'm Asian-American and I grew up speaking two languages and living in a multi-generational household.

- I have a degree in Environmental Studies and Teaching and felt drawn to bring education, creativity, and the environment together for students.

- I hope to help students feel seen and heard, while giving them the tools to be successful in and outside of school.

# data[].attributes.body
1. I have been in NC all of my life but raised in a very close-minded, small community. Getting out was a dream. I now live 6 hours away, about to start my dream job.

2. Something that keeps my day going is lightbulb moments. Being able to see someone finally "get it", whether that be academic, social, or just life, it feels amazing to be able to watch people you're surrounded with succeed in the things they have always wished for.

3. I thrive on being independent and having no financial dependence, success, or ties to anyone. It was all accomplished by ME and I am so very proud of that.

# data[].attributes.body
1. I feel like I am back tracking in my career but I'm doing it.
2. I feel like this was my purpose.... I know this is what God has in store for me.
3. It time to dive head first out of my comfort zone and become someone amazing a teacher worth remembering...

# data[].attributes.body
1. I was born in Charlotte, but grew up in Pittsburgh.
2. Family is very important to me. I have a very large family that is extremely involved in my life (even from afar).
3. I always wanted to be an educator and I feel very proud of myself for finally accomplishing that dream!

# data[].attributes.body
1. I have lived my whole life here in Jacksonville, NC and have been blessed with a very close family which overflowed and created ties with our local community.

2. Ever since I was little, I was very involved and sports and from that learned many beneficial life lessons like team work and communication. I also learned that I am not defined by that aspect of my life.

3. Children are my why. Although I do not have any of my own, I have a strong desire to be the safe place for my students and one of the reasons they get excited to come to school every day.

# data[].attributes.body
This too shall pass.

Good things come to those who wait.

Believe in yourself!

# data[].attributes.body
1. Born and raised surrounded by the beautiful Adirondack Mountains in upstate NY.

2. My struggles have paved the way for my triumphs.

3. I'm a lover not a fighter.

# data[].attributes.body
I am a mother of three beautiful children. Thanks to them I have changed careers and made my passion high school education. I feel that if we start molding our youth into successful adults, a lot of the world's problems will become easier to fix.

# data[].attributes.body
1.  I was adopted as an infant and attended catholic school, which made me fearful of school.  Was never given an opportunity to succeed in school, so sports became my avenue to success.
2.  Finally finished my degree in Dec 2020, and achieving my dream of teaching EC.  I am excited but passing tests still haunts me :)
3. As a foster parent, I have seen a lot of the "hard things" with kids that we have parented My experience allowed me to grow into the person i am and love on all the kids!

# data[].attributes.body
1. I'm from NY however, I feel I was always meant to live in the south.

2. I didn't start college until I was 26.

3. Divorced, single mother doing her best to hold the fort down.

# data[].attributes.headline
                              Pieces of my Puzzle

# data[].attributes.subject
                              Pieces of my Puzzle

# data[].attributes.body
- I lived with my third grade teacher for a month and she is why I went into education.

- I started as a theater major so I love introducing some drama into the classroom.

- My parents were hippies when they were younger so a bit of that rubbed off onto me. So I share lots of love in my class.

# data[].attributes.body
-My husband reminds me everyday of what a real male figure should be like

-I fell in love with helping people with disabilities by watching my mom work with adults with disabilities my whole life

-My nieces and nephew are the reason I pray for a change in the education system

# data[].attributes.body
1. Although I was born in Washington State, I have lived in Florida, California (3 times), and North Carolina (2 times). Every time I moved, we traveled cross country via car. I have been to the Grand Canyon, St. Louis Arch, Maui, Oahu, and many other places!
2. I value impacting at least one person a day and strive to make a change in at least one individual's life.
3. Each individual goes through their own troubles, whether they are within themselves or caused by external situations. Treat each person with kindness, you may not know what your actions help with.

# data[].attributes.body
1. I am a military wife.
2. I consider my cat my child.
3. College was a struggle and my passion for teaching is truly the only thing that got me through it.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Before finishing college, I was a restaurant manager and trainer for over 20 years.
2. I have wanted to become a teacher since all the way back when I was in 2nd grade, inspired by my teacher who loved read alouds.
3. I am a self-published author with several more books crawling around in my head.

# data[].attributes.body
I grew up in a "village" surrounded by cornfields.

When I was a little girl, I always said I wanted to be a mom, an artist and a teacher.

I lived in the same home my whole life until I got married and ran away with my Marine!

# data[].attributes.body
-I struggled when I went back to school. Persistence and devotion wins.

-I was pigeonholed in high school and quit caring. Graduated but literally quit

-I am here to ensure every child gets a chance.

# data[].attributes.body
1.I am a S. Carolina girl born and raised!
2. I love getting to know others, and always knew I would be working in the service sector.
3. As a child on job day would dress up as a relator because, "I wanted to help people find their home." Now I am excited to get into the classroom and help students find a home away from home!

# data[].attributes.body
1. While I was not born in NC, I view NC as my home and I have now lived in all three regions of the state.
2. I decided that I wanted to go into education my senior year of high school because I was able to "TA" for a level 1 Latin class while I was in Latin 4 and I feel in love with teaching.
3. I love being outside. Hiking and camping are 2 of my favorite things!

# data[].attributes.body
1. I served in the Army which helped me with structure and adaptability.
2. In the Army I interacted with people from all corners of the globe, and they also introduced me to some of their cultures which I found interesting.
3. I am new to this area so I want to find fun things to do around town.

# data[].attributes.body
1) Three things I wanted to be when I was kid: Solder, Police Officer, Teacher. Two of the Three Completed.

2) Enjoy each day! Lots of people who did not wake up, made plans for the day.

3) Every one has something to teach us.

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- Before teaching I wanted to be a professional fighter, when you almost make it and realize that the brain and body get destroyed you have to find an alternate dream.
- Future fatherhood, my long term girlfriend and I are expected our first child in October and I couldn't be more excited to hold our baby boy.
- Pride in family, my family immigrated here from Sicily after a massive earthquake and knowing what my family did to make it here makes me proud to be Sicilian.

# data[].attributes.body
I am a Christian

I am from a military family. Parents and sister Army, I am a Navy veteran, and my husband is a Marine.

I have worked with children my whole adult life. I have worked mostly with special needs children. My background is ABA.

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I moved every three or less years of my life until I graduated high school.

I consider myself a global nomad, being from no where and living around the world.

I want to be a teacher because it was often the only stability in my childhood.

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My grandparents took me in at 4 and raised me on their farm. I lost 3 of my bestfriends in high school due to car accidents. I was named after a teacher and my grandmother was a teacher so I am carrying on the legacy.

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1. My father and step mother are both retired police officers, so my upbringing was very strict; something I didn't appreciate until recently.

2. I've learned to live for myself and to try to not let what others want for my life, influence how I actually live my life.

3. I love cooking. My step mom is very sensitive to smells and cooking wasn't allowed in our house as a result. So, once I moved out, I have been learning how to cook every and anything. One of my favorite dishes is a homemade sweet potato gnocchi with a mushroom, coconut milk sauce.

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1.I have played sports my entire life and it has taught me the importance of collaborating with those around me.

2.I am mixed (black and white) so growing up I never really knew where I "fit"

3.The desire to teach was originally a "my parents did it so I can too thing" but after going to college I found my own motivation to be a teacher

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1. Being a follower of Christ influences every aspect of my life.
2. As our culture grows more and more selfish, I want to be an example of why living for others is far more greater a cause in life than watching out for you and yours.
3. I thrive off helping others, spending time with my best friend/husband, and staying active in the great outdoors!

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I was born with Mild Cerebral Palsy on my right side. It took me 17 yrs to swing my arms back and forth.

I was in a family of Teachers. I always wanted to be a teacher. It just took me a little longer to fulfill my dream.

I have a motto of never give up... If I can do something, my students can do it as long as they never give up

# data[].attributes.body
- I originally went to school to be a therapist.  Then, I knew my calling was toward the EC population.
- My best friend in Kindergarten had Autism and ever since then I knew I wanted to make an impact on the special needs community.
- I grew up in a military household and have since married into the military.

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1. I come from a blended family which has given me a unique perspective into the different dynamics that one family can have within in. This has also taught me that you do not need to be directly related to someone for them to become family.
2. I am a military child, so I was constantly on the move and had to make new friends everywhere I went. This taught me that we humans are more similar than we are different, but the differences should be celebrated because those are what helped me grow as an individual.
3. I have found over my relatively short lifetime that good luck looks a lot like hard work. The harder you work, the more opportunities present themselves for you to take--even the ones you never thought you would be qualified for.

# data[].attributes.body
-In 6th grade I was diagnosed with Narcolepsy due to the H1N1 shot

-I went to school for Graphic Design and to run D1 track throughout college, but after lacking self confidence and changing majors. I realized that the sport was not the same as when I first started.

-After graduating college, I realized I wanted change and something new. After searching multiple areas and many interviews I ended up in Swansboro, where I have no family, friends or relatives. It is the beginning of a new chapter.

# data[].attributes.body
I took a 20 yr hiatus from my college education to support my husband's military career and raise our three boys.
I went back to school, finished my degree and graduated from college less than a month before our oldest son graduated from high school.
I was hired by the middle school principal because I had been on the PTO for over 6 years and had established a connection from being the PTO mom.

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1. I grew up in a military family and I am now a military spouse. Has lead to my adaptability and my constant is change

2. I have worked in instruction and education prior for 10 years so although I am a first year formal teacher I have a history in teaching and education.

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1. I am hard of hearing (I wear hearing aids)
2. I am Hispanic (Puerto Rican and Honduran)
3. I am the first in my family to graduate from an university/college

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As a child I was always thought there was something wrong with me. I grew into an adult and had a hard time. I discovered I had a mental illness that I would have to learn how to live with. I found the right people to help me and today I am the happiest I have ever been. I have hope and I am ready for a bright future. 

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As a child I was always thought there was something wrong with me. I grew into an adult and had a hard time. I discovered I had a mental illness that I would have to learn how to live with. I found the right people to help me and today I am the happiest I have ever been. I have hope and I am ready for a bright future. 

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1. I am a USMC spouse who never imagined she would be teaching, but after homeschooling my children for 5.5 years, I found I enjoyed education.

2. My position literally fell into my lap, out of the blue.

3. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with kids and love using my HR background to help prepare my students for their futures.

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1. I have a husband of five years, 4 year old daughter and a son on the way--my family means the world to me.
2. Physical and mental resilience are part of almost all I do, from being a Marine veteran to an ultrarunner, toughness is inherent to my self.
3. Rock and metal music, to include its lyrics and instrumentals speak most closely to my inner emotions.

# data[].attributes.body
I was raised by my grandparents.

I was the first in my family to graduate high school and college.

I am now raising my little sister.

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1. I am a first generation high school/college grad who decided to become a teacher because of the liberating and enriching effect education had on my life as well as the positive contributions that the significant teachers had me.
2. Art, specifically music and poetry have had integral influence in shaping who I am, how I learned about the world, and what my passions are.
3. Track and Field brought some of my greatest friends and soft skills that brought me where I am today.

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1. After losing my best friend in a tragic car accident I realized I needed to change my life. I needed to clean up my act, go to college, meet new people and start over. It was the most life changing moment and kick started this journey.
2. My brother is deaf, which inspired me to focus on EC education.
3. I moved to Jacksonville because I love being close to the beach and in a warm environment!

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I was born and raised in rural Wisconsin. I got married, graduated from college, and moved away from home within 2 months. I never wanted to be a teacher until I went to college and worked with two amazing professors who taught me what it means to be an incredible teacher and mentor.

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1.Mental health is so important.
2. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher, but I had a very difficult time and faced many hardships getting here.
3. Never be afraid to start over.

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1. I was diagnosed with epilepsy in middle school, and I turned to reading for comfort.
2. School has always been my favorite place to be.
3. Both of my parents are teachers, and both have heavily influenced my teaching philosophies (along with a couple of fantastic professors I had in undergrad).

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I joined the Military to give back to my nation.  I joined before the terror attacks in New York and continued to serve for over 20 years. with out knowing i would assume responsibilities where i would serve those who served as a first sergeant. this position is ever rewarding while ever so demanding. the hardest part is taking care of my military families during a service members death. what i learned is nothing is ever the same and ever changing. i continue to serve after service as a teacher at NSHS as the AFJROC Instructor do develop citizens of Character.

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I was born and raised in Peru (South America). I came to Oklahoma about 10 years ago. I knew zero English Level, but I was fortunate to have some awesome high school teachers, who made an impact in my life. I graduated from Yukon High School, Oklahoma. Last year, I was an ESL Teacher for the school that I had graduated from. Just seeing my former teachers made me so proud of myself! I was also able to help to those students whose English was not their first language!

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I was born and raised in Peru (South America). I came to Oklahoma about 10 years ago. I knew zero English Level, but I was fortunate to have some awesome high school teachers, who made an impact in my life. I graduated from Yukon High School, Oklahoma. Last year, I was an ESL Teacher for the school that I had graduated from. Just seeing my former teachers made me so proud of myself! I was also able to help to those students whose English was not their first language!

# data[].attributes.body
I am married to an immigrant so I'm always finding new inequities or difficulties and hope I can make it easier for someone in the future with my experience and knowledge

I grew up on a small farm and so I love all animals and appreciate that everyone has different needs and purposes and that's just life

I love the East coast, the west coast is exhausting

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1. I come from a single-parent household, with said parent struggling with substance abuse. I viewed this experience as a "How Not To" book. I strived to be better and became the first one in my family to be clean, as well as graduate high school. This allowed me to be the first one to pursue college.

2. I have lived in over ten states and two countries.

2. I own, and operate, a photography business and find a great deal of accomplishment there.

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1. I've auditioned for the X-Factor and The Voice.
2. I became a teacher, because a teacher saved my life when I was in middle school and she actually had no idea that she did until years later.
3. I'm a first generation college attendee and grad-plus the first female in the family to ever even apply to college.

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I was a stay at home Mom for almost 9 years. I studied History in college. Divorce forced me to go back to work and I found my passion for teaching.

# data[].attributes.subject
I was a stay at home Mom for almost 9 years. I studied History in college. Divorce forced me to go back to work and I found my passion for teaching.

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Simple, perseverance, committed . Born and raised in this community. I love living here and want others to love being here as well. I feel comfortable here and have lived in a big city but my heart is for this place and these people.

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My foundation and life revolves around The Lord. I come from divorced parents who love me unconditionally and a dad who was an alcoholic. I came to Swansboro to start my own little life.

# data[].attributes.body
I have a stomach disorder
I moved far away from home.
support system daily

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I had a car accident my senior year of high school that almost took my life. I lost multiple organs, broke many bones, and ultimately had to learn how to walk again. I learned first hand about determination, grit, and perseverance. 

# data[].attributes.subject
I had a car accident my senior year of high school that almost took my life. I lost multiple organs, broke many bones, and ultimately had to learn how to walk again. I learned first hand about determination, grit, and perseverance. 

# data[].attributes.body
Travel and experience the world and cultures.
Don't be afraid to take chances.
Help others and spread kindness.

# data[].attributes.body
- I have never met my biological father.
- I am a lover of dachshunds :)
- I grew up in a very low income household and was a first generation student in college.