Sarah Woodford • Northern Elementary School, Grade 4, 2nd year of teaching  

"At the end of the day, I hope that I've taught my children much more than the actual content of the daily reading or science lesson. When my children leave my classroom, I want them to possess an awareness of their own talents, an excitement for learning, and an appreciation for the ideas of those around them."

"A positive and patient approach will enable ALL students to learn at high levels. Since my first day of teaching, my ultimate goal has been to teach my students math in a fun, anxiety-free, non-traditional class setting so they can learn higher level math concepts without even realizing they are learning them. Comfort and success builds confidence in each of us to be more self-motivated to acquire new knowledge. One of our class mottos, using the words of Jimmy Valvano, probably sums our strategy up best. 'Don't give up. Don't ever give up.'"

Mary Peyton • Arlington Elementary School, Literacy Specialist, 18th year of teaching

"I believe that 'Children are seeds of promise.' Children, like seeds have the potential to thrive, to grow, and to mature under the proper conditions. They promise to produce a bountiful harvest when their environment is supportive and rich with opportunities to learn through questioning, inquiry and self reflection. As a teacher, I try to meet students at their point of need and accept and appreciate their individual differences. It is only with much care and nurturing that teachers help to insure that our students successfully complete the learning cycle. Children today are our hope for the future. As I sow the seeds of knowledge today, I know I'll reap the fruits of harvest tomorrow."

"The quality of a person's life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor" Vincent T. Lombardi...........I ask my students to follow three rules, be respectful, take responsibility and act righteously.

Susi Schaeffer • Deep Springs Elementary School, LBD Resource, 15th year of teaching

"I believe children have an innate thirst for knowledge about the world around them. It is our jobs as educators to tap in that curiosity in a way that engages the student. I also believe that children are unique individuals, and we as teachers must search out the distinctive strengths of each student and celebrate these."