Grade/school: Second grade at Chapel Glen Elementary, Wayne Township.

Number of years teaching: Two.

Work e-mail: leslie.reed@wayne.k12.in.us

Background/schooling: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 2007; Ben Davis High School, 2003.

Why did you become a teacher: I decided to become a teacher because I had a really positive education from Wayne Township and wanted to have that kind of effect on children (in my same district even). Also, my mom is a teacher, and I saw how much she loved her job and working with children, and it really inspired me to do the same.

What goals do you have for your students: I hope to create a classroom that is safe but also encourages children to learn new things every day. I hope to send my students on to the next grade level at the end of the year one step closer to becoming who they want to be.

What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills: I encourage parents to read with their child every night. It helps build the child’s confidence and reading skills, while also giving the parent something they can connect to with their child.

Name your favorite movie: I love the movie “Footloose,” the new “Star Trek” and the “Harry Potter” series.

Name your favorite musician or band: I love country but especially Sugarland. I also really like Bob Marley.

What’s something your students might not know about you: I was a disc jockey on the Ben Davis High School radio station.