The person who inspired me most in my life was my 3^rd grade teacher.  Though I passed Kindergarten, First and Second grade, when I reached 3^rd grade, I still did not know how to read.  I was smart enough to fake it and had gotten by unnoticed for so long, but Ms. Gerstein saw through me on day one.  She never made me feel dumb and never showed her surprise, but instead worked with me every day, going above-and-beyond what would ever be expected.  No only is reading now one of my favorite pastimes, but inspired by Ms. Gerstein, I am a proud elementary school teacher with pupils of my own!  Thank you Ms. Gerstein.

Christine W. of Clinton, SC