As Plutarch wrote in Moralia, On Listening to Lectures 48C (LCL 1.256-25), "For the mind does not require filling like a bottle, but rather, like wood, it only requires kindling to create in it an impulse to think independently and an ardent desire for the truth," and while my students will attest that I fill up their binders and in-boxes with work, they will state that I do get fired up when teaching literature. With over 13 years of teaching experience in HS English and 20 years coaching swimming, I relish inspiring my students to think critically and become passionate about the topics studied in class. Outside of the classroom, one can find me roaming the halls with my sidekick, Brody the therapy dog, a member of the Southern PAWS pack, or yelling "GO!" on the pool deck during swim season. I am a nerd, geek, dork, and foremost an academic. I love learning and continue to evolve as a teacher and coach. You can follow my academic exploits here: http://kbakerbyodlit.blogspot.com/