INTRODUCTION Adrienne Johnson-Lee EDU 671 Fundamentals of Educational Research Dr. Newton Miller August 9,

Introduction Hello, my name is Adrienne Johnson-Lee. I am a non-traditional-age student, working on a Master’s degree in Education, with a specialization in Family and Community Services. I am the proud mother of three adult daughters and an adult son, all of whom I love very much. Previously, I have worked at an elementary school where half its population were ESE students, and I loved every minute of it. 2

Introduction I have fond memories of my kindergarten teacher. Her name was Betsy Kline. She had a kind way about her that I never forgot. Even as I was promoted up the ranks, she always remembered my name and would talk with me whenever she could. Three decades later, I accepted a position at a local university working in the Dean’s Office. One day, a woman walked into my office. She had forgotten her pen and needed to borrow one from me. I quietly obliged, however, the similarities of her smile sparked something within. There she was, right next to me. Needless to say the reunion was something I’ll never forget. She had become a professor at the School of Education where I was now employed, impacting the lives of other people just like me. That was my favorite moment ever. 3

Dr. Betsy Kline has now graduated into eternal rest. But, whenever I need a kind word, I think of hers... because they are embedded in my mind. My long-term goal is to one day own a daycare, in an urban setting, and act as it’s Director. My short-term goal, however, is to provide hope to the underprivileged, and offer a gentle nudge when needed. My degree will be of great benefit, I believe, because it will help prepare me to face the challenges that go along with leadership. 4

Introduction On the subject of research, at this point I have limited knowledge. However, as I understand it, the purpose of action research is to make decisions while the purpose of traditional research is to draw conclusions. 5