Name: Diana Madison.

Grade/Subject at what school: First-grade teacher at Spring Mill Elementary School.

Number of years teaching: Six.

Work e-mail: dmadison @msdwt.k12.in.us.

Background/Schooling: Pike High School and a bachelor’s degree elementary education from Butler University.

Why did you become a teacher: I had a fantastic fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Feist, who was so good to me. In high school, I did some work with her in her classroom and chose, in college, to follow in her footsteps.

What goals do you have for your students? I want my students to leave first grade loving learning. I believe that, although they are young, first graders can be independent, socially mature and motivated learners.

What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills? In first grade, parents can help the most by reading to (and with) their kids, and talking with them every single day.

Name your favorite movie: “The Holiday.”

Name your favorite musician or band: Brad Paisley.

Something my students don’t know about me: I broke my leg in college and had to wear a big purple cast for two months.