I teach because I love it! As a music teacher, I get to work with young people and help them discover new things about themselves through activities they might not otherwise experience. As a math interventionist, I have the opportunity to spend as much time as needed on specific skills to help my students find success in math—many of them for the very first time. This work is both rewarding and deeply important!  I studied with a private trumpet teacher from 7th grade through college. He was incredibly tough on me, but he motivated me in a way no one else ever has! I left every single lesson excited to go home and work on that week’s assignment. When he gave a rare compliment, I knew I had truly earned it. He inspired me to pursue a career in education, and his legacy continues to motivate and inspire me today. Seeing my own students experience the satisfaction of success through hard work is the most rewarding feeling!