Why do you want to teach?

I receive this question often. My answer has been and always will be, "I want to teach to inspire students to reach their potential. I want to be a positive influence in my students' lives. I want to make a difference, no matter how small."

I answer this way because of the woman standing in the picture beside me.

Her name is Lisa Clinton and she was the greatest teacher I have ever had.

Lisa was my College Algebra teacher during my senior year of high school. I had never been fond of math, but Lisa's class changed my attitude completely.

She was the first math teacher that believed in me enough that I began to believe in myself.

I had never earned an A in a high school math class. Yet, because of her encouragement, support, and unique teaching style, I earned an A in her class.