Shannon Parker is in her freshman year at the State University of New York at Plattsburgh. Shannon is studying in the accelerated Master’s Program for Early Childhood Education, Childhood Education, and Special Education. Her dream for years has been to become a Kindergarten teacher. Shannon has a passion for music and physical activity that she hopes to share with her students. She has been playing saxophone for years, and believes that music in education is critical. “I would teach them how much fun it is to express yourself through music, and learn at the same time!” she says. Shannon also believes physical activity can help to balance children’s lives, even at an early age. She herself enjoys skiing, hiking, swimming, and many other sports.

Shannon loves volunteering, because she meets so many amazing and appreciative people. From her father, David, who works at the Federal Bureau of Prisons, she is grateful to have learned perseverance. “He has taught me to do my job to the best of my ability, because even if it doesn’t seem like it, people do appreciate it when you are able to not only do your job, but do it well.”