Grade/subject at what school: Second grade, College Wood Elementary.

Number of years teaching: 16.

Work e-mail: jgossett@ccs.k12.in.us

Background/schooling: Bachelor’s degree, Ball State University, 1992; master’s degree in Education, Indiana Wesleyan, 2003.

Why did you become a teacher: I became a teacher because I had tremendous elementary teachers growing up. They all had a huge impact on my life.

What goals do you have for your students: I want my students to be happy, productive children who value themselves first and foremost and love to learn new things every day.

What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills: I encourage parents to be involved with their children’s learning every day but to also not forget to let them play and be kids. That’s so important.

Name your favorite movie: “On Golden Pond.”

Name your favorite musician or band: Dave Matthews Band.

What’s something your students might not know about you: I can do “the worm” backward.