I was born and raised in New Jersey in a small town called Plainfield. I grew up as the third oldest and oldest girl among 10 sisters and brothers. After I graduated from Plainfield High School, I attended Virginia State College where I earned a degree in Special Education. I decided not to teach right away but to join the military so that I could travel the world. Although I had only intended to serve one tour of duty in the Air Force, 18 years passed before I knew it. I took an early retirement from the Air Force and began teaching in Hoke County, North Carolina. After teaching for 16 years in Hoke County, i decided to give Cumberland County Schools a try and I am so glad I did!