While education is very important, good character is the most important quality in a person.

— Keller Smith, First Grade Teacher

What is your favorite CDS tradition?

There are so many wonderful CDS traditions that I think are important and make CDS a special place. One tradition is our Monday morning assembly. It is special because it provides an opportunity to gather as a community from the youngest to the oldest. We are able to celebrate anything from birthdays to academic and athletic successes. I also love the Bigs and Lils Program. This is yet another opportunity to build relationships and a sense of community at CDS.

What is your favorite children’s book?

There are so many wonderful picture books that it is hard to pick just one. However, Frances Hodgson Burnett’s “The  Secret  Garden” was one of my favorite books as a child. It’s a story about learning the secret to happiness. The main characters in the story learn that the secret to happiness is to think less about yourself and more about others. What a great message for us all! I also love to garden, so the thought of having a secret garden is pretty magical.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

My grandmother taught kindergarten for almost 40 years. She taught me that ABCs and 123s are important in life, but at the end of the day a person remembers how you made them feel. While education is very important, good character is the most important quality in a person. I always ask my children if they’re living by ‘The Golden Rule.’ Do they treat others as they want to be treated? It’s as simple as that.

What is your favorite vacation spot?

I enjoy spending time at the beach, lake and in the mountains. I love being outside and enjoying nature.