Hello to all of my classmates and Mrs. Rackley.  I am Allison Parnell from Whiteville, born and raised here.  I am 34 years old and returning to school for the first time since 2007.  I received an Associates in Elementary, Middle Grades, and Special Education from SCC in 2005.  I went on to UNC-Pembroke where I graduated with a BA in History.  During the time I was attending college, I worked at Hickory Hill Childcare Center with all different ages, my favorite being the 1 and 3 year olds. After graduation, I chose a different career path in the mental health field and became a one-on-one worker for individuals of all ages with various physical and learning disabilities.  I have been doing that for 10+ years, but recently took a break so that I could return to school.  I am married and have 1 son who is 9 years old.  Something unique about me is that I am a nurturer by nature, a Christian, and a bargain hunter.  I am very close to my extended family and enjoy getting together with them as often as possible.  In this class, I hope to learn how to become a better teacher, how to run a classroom more efficiently, and how to have more patience. I am eager to get to learn more about each of you as well.