Grade/subject/school: Grade 3, Central Elementary, Plainfield.

Number of years teaching: 18.

Work email: jmaple @plainfield.k12.in.us

Background/schooling: Ben Davis High School; bachelor’s degree in Education from Indiana University; master’s degree from Olivet University.

Why did you become a teacher: In third grade, my life was changing in many ways, but my teacher, Miss Hearn, made me feel important and special. She made such an impression on me that I wanted to be just like her and give students the feeling of importance. Here I am.

What goals do you have for your students: I have many goals that I set for my students each year, but one that I focus most on is a love for reading. If my students can read well they can go anywhere and do anything. My love for reading, which was something I was horrible at in elementary school, is hopefully spreading to them.

What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills: Parents just need to spend TIME with their children. Talking to them about their day and reading with them. Just ten to fifteen minutes a night can really work wonders with their children. Showing them you are interested in them means so much.

Name your favorite movie. “Pay it Forward.” It has such a wonderful message of how if everyone just did something to make a difference in our world, what a more wonderful place it would be.

Name your favorite musician or band. My favorite musician is Kenny G. His musical talents with the saxophone are phenomenal and the music is sure to change any mood to soothing and less stressed.

What’s something your students might not know about you: My students may not know that I enjoy running and have participated in the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon three times and counting.