Hello, my name is Valerie Dapremont. I received my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Xavier University, a master’s degree from the University of New Orleans, and + 30 hours from various institutions. I taught 33 years in Orleans Parish Public School System. Then, Katrina came along and changed the course of my life. I left New Orleans, retired from teaching, and lived in Houston for a few years. Later, I decided to come back home to New Orleans. I spent time with my granddaughter and when the opportunity came for me to return to work, I did. It led me to St. Benedict the Moor School. This coming year will be my 9^th year at the school. I am truly blessed to have come out of retirement, to teach a grade I have always wanted to teach, to have worked with a leader, an assistance, faculty, staff, parents, and above all, students who have who have made the past 8 years go by so quickly, like it was just yesterday.