"Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn." As a teacher for over thirty years, this famous quote by Benjamin Franklin has guided me through my years of instruction. It has also added to much of my success as an educator. While growing up here in Jacksonville, I developed a love for teaching at a young age. I remember watching my own teachers right here in Duval County, and many of them inspired me to become a part of this great profession. Some of the ones that I still remember were those that held high expectations and demanded only the best; yet they cared about their students. Throughout my years as an educator, I have tried my best to maintain this precept. Students must be held to high expectations, but they must first know that you truly care and want the best for them. Today I still have a strong passion for teaching and helping young people succeed.

Most of my teaching experience has been in the area of middle school Language Arts. I previously spent 18 years at Darnell-Cookman Middle/High School. During this time I received my National Board teaching certification, and the National Teacher of Excellence Award in education. During the last three years I have had the privilege of working in the area of elementary education as a Reading Coach and third grade teacher at Woodland Acres Elementary. This year I have the opportunity to teach sixth grade at Julia Landon Middle School.

Although teaching has been a great part of my life, nothing can take the place of my faith and family. I have been happily married 34 years to Michael Gaylor, and we share two wonderful children, John and Whitney along with four beautiful grandchildren and Oscar, our 12 year old Jack Russell. My favorite interests are traveling, reading, music, and remodeling my home.