Grade/Subject at what school: First grade, early literacy, Oak Trace Elementary.

Number of years teaching: 37.

Work e-mail: durbinm@wws.k12.in.us

Background/Schooling: Master’s degree with a reading endorsement, Indiana University.

Why did you become a teacher: Well, I’ve always loved to be around little children and the selfish part of me thought it would be nice to be home in the summer with my own children.

What goals do you have for your students: I want them to develop a love for learning through reading as they grow into successful, confident readers.

What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills: I strongly recommend they encourage and support their children and spend time reading as a family at home.

Name your favorite movie: It changes frequently, but I am excited about “Where the Wild Things Are” coming to theaters soon. It was my favorite children’s book.

Name your favorite musician or band: I love country music, and my favorite performer is definitely Tim McGraw.

What’s something your students might not know about you: That I’ve been teaching long enough to have had Mrs. (Robin) Lynch, the school principal, in class, and that I did have her sister, too.