Calhoun Middle School's faculty selected Mrs. Dani Plunkett as their Teacher of the Year. She graduated with honors and distinction with a Music Education degree from Jacksonville State University. She earned her Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education from Piedmont College and her Specialist Degree in curriculum and instruction from Lincoln Memorial University. Dani began teaching in 1980 and came to north Georgia in the fall of 1994 and began teaching at Calhoun Elementary School. In 2004 she became Choral Director at Calhoun Middle School. This is her second time to receive the Teacher of the Year honor. Dani reflected that music has always been an important part of her life. Her early exposure and encouragement from her parents helped her to excel not just musically but academically as well. She feels that all children possess gifts and talents, and it has been a privilege as a music educator to help children discover those talents, both at the elementary and middle school levels. Teaching students to share their gifts through musical performance is what she considers to be one of her greatest contributions. As a music educator she feels that her commitment to the community is still expressed through her commitment to music. Her choral groups perform frequently for various business and civic organizations throughout the year. It is important that I help my students understand the rewards of giving back by sharing their musical talents. Music is a gift that keeps on giving. She tells her students that everything they do today in some way helps prepare for tomorrow. It is important to help her students see that connection and that with dedication and hard work anything is possible. Every small success leads to greater accomplishments. When children succeed, be it through try-outs, auditions and performances, it teaches them to love and believe in themselves. When children believe in themselves the possibilities are endless.