Children and youth are not empty vessels waiting to be “filled” with knowledge.” Seigel

1. Children and youth are not empty vessels waiting to be “filled” with knowledge.” Seigel Family

2. My family is the most important thing in my life. I am the oldest of four children, which is a big reason I became a teacher. Love, support and humor are paramount in my family. These values help me to be a better person and teacher. • Here we are dancing and singing Johnny Cash’s Ring of Fire, one of our favorite songs, at my wedding.

3. Ultimately, my parents are my greatest influence and example in my life, as an individual, a teacher and a wife. They gave me an extraordinary childhood, raised me with strong morals and demonstrate daily how to put others first.

4. My grandparents on my dad’s side of the family were both lawyers. My grandpa and his father started the family firm where my dad still works, and my grandma was one of two women in her law school class. My mom’s father started his own steel business, which helped my uncle to begin his own business. My mom’s parents – at their 50th wedding anniversary party

5. Their perseverance and passion is inspiring. From my grandparents, I have learned how to be independent and to take pride in hard work. My dad’s parents

6. I have dozens of first cousins, with several my age. I grew up with them, spending my summers and weekends with them. Our friendships and experiences helped solidify the importance I place on relationships with family members. With them, I developed a strong sense of loyalty and a good sense of humor.

7. My husband Eric and I got married in October 2011. He is amazing, and I am constantly learning from him. He makes me strive to be a better person, and as a result, a better teacher.