Soon after the author began her first year as a Teach for America (TFA) corps member, she realized how underprepared she felt teaching first grade. Although she grew as an educator over time and still committed to working in education, it was an uphill battle. And, like most other TFA corps members, she left teaching within the first three years.…

Describes a later-entry first grade teacher at a rural school in Indiana, who has continued to teach despite a number of hurdles that would impede many educators. Demonstrates her commitment to the profession and to her school, a commitment which has continued to grow through each career stage. (RS)