Cody Carlton Early Childhood Memorial Scholarship

Ever since I was little and first thought about the question, "What do I want to be when I grow up?" Now, most other kids then, most likely would've said a basketball player or maybe an astronaut, but for me, it wasn't as easy. From a young age, all I knew was that I wanted to work with kids. I have always had a passion for helping kids be the best they can be and to leave a positive impact on them. I first thought about maybe being a pediatrician, but after more thought, I found what was right for me: a teacher. The person who impacted my choice to be an early childhood educator is very important and special to me—my mom. My mom is an elementary art teacher, and she is the best mom I could ever ask for. Her ability to be patient, loving, and do what's right not only for me but also for her students has done nothing but inspire me to become a teacher. My mom has been my role model my entire life, and I strive to be like her in her work ethic, drive, kindness, compassion, and overall care for others, no matter what. She has helped and influenced me in my journey to being a future educator, and I look forward to having my classroom one day. Being someone who has been bullied and treated wrongly before, I look forward to becoming a teacher and making a positive impact on my future class and school. I plan to start off being an elementary teacher, then eventually going on to get my master's in administration where I would love to become a principal. My future classroom will be nothing but positive, hardworking, and inclusive to every student that walks through my door. I plan to build each of my students up into the best person they can be, and when I eventually become a principal, I plan on making my school open-minded and positive. I intend to encourage open communication in my school so that we can create the best environment possible for not only every student but also staff. In a world where a good number of students lack a positive male role model, I plan to be that role model for them. I am a firm believer that every child should have a male role model and that the lack of male role models in today's world can be blamed for some social and political issues that happen. I believe if a student has a positive male role model that supports and inspires their dreams and ambitions, students will strive to be the best they can be and become good, hard-working people in the future.