My name is Tara Downey.  I was born in Wilmington, DE and have lived in many different states through the years.  I graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in 2000.  I attended Florida International and Florida Atlantic University.  I graduated in 2004 and started my teaching career at Somerset Academy.  I have taught third and second grade at Somerset Academy for four years now.  I truly enjoy teaching second grade.  The bond between teachers and students at that age is truly wonderful. 

      My dream to be a teacher has been with me since I was very young.  It has followed me through all of my years of learning.  I have gained ideas, knowledge, and even courage from all of my teachers and professors throughout the years.  They have taught me that the gift of learning is something to be treasured.  I try and teach my students this same idea.  My future goal in education is to become a reading specialist.  Reading is something that is dear to my heart, and I wish to share this love for reading with all students.