Q: What first inspired you to become a teacher, especially with food and nutrition?

A:  I’m very interested in healthy living. Many years ago I made that decision. I thought it was a gentle profession and a way to communicate with young people, a way to transfer young habits into young people, and I felt like I was in a position as a food and nutrition teacher to show others how to have a happy and better life. 

Q: Looking back, what made you stay in teaching for so many years?

A: I started teaching and then I stopped for a period of time because I had a family and then waited until our kids were out of the house and on the brink of their careers before returning to teaching which I loved. I started part-time teaching, tutoring in various subject matters, such as science and English. A principal at the middle school informed me a teacher was retiring and I should apply for the food and nutrition position at the middle school, and then the same thing happened at the high school where I eventually transferred and have been ever since. 

Q: What are some of your proudest accomplishments as a teacher? 

A: Besides my primary subject matter, I also teach my students how to be good human beings — be kind, gracious, loving, thoughtful, and it will pay off. 

Q: What impact do you hope you had on your students over the years? 

A: I feel like I’ve taught students to take care of their bodies through proper eating. Students should try to be open to a variety of foods. Food is one of the ones you can learn about culture; you can even experience the world through food.

Q: What is a challenge you faced during your career, and what helped you overcome it?

A:  Over the years, there have been minor misunderstandings with students, parents, and administrators and I’ve been able to learn from each situation how to be a better communicator. 

Q: What will you miss most about teaching? 

A: The kids and [her] colleagues. Although, as I live in town, I love when students say “Hi, Ms. I.”.  

Q: How does it feel to officially retire after dedicating so much of your life to education?

A:  Bittersweet.

Q: How would you describe your overall career in a few words? 

A: I was good at what I did! 

Q: What legacy do you hope you leave behind at this school? 

A: That I was able to teach so many students over the years how to navigate through a kitchen.