Marlee Sims has always tried to remain true to herself. Whether it was as a gifted athlete, excelling in four sports in high school, or as a student struggled with the process of learning. “I was the student with all the tricks to memorizing stuff: color-coded index cards, reading out loud, drawing out diagrams, word association games and studying to classical music,” says Marlee. “You name it. I tried it.” As a student teacher, she has remained true to her students, feeling they are the most motivated when they feel like they matter. “I talk to them, not just talk at them. My coordinating teacher has done a good job telling me a little something about all of them so when I talk to them it’s from the heart.” The challenge in teaching physical education is finding something for everyone. A PE teacher has to be flexible; if plan A fails, you need to have a plan B, C and D. If you are phoning it in, the students know it. “If they’re not getting what they need from me, I change what I prepared. We don’t all learn the same way. I know what it’s like to need that extra color-coded note card.” When thinking about why she chose teaching as a career, Marlee simply says “I found that I love kids. They keep it entertaining. They also keep you on your feet. So, I’m choosing happiness.” As she readies herself for her first job, she will remain true to herself.