Kimberly R. Morandi

Town: Stamford, Vt.

Age: 33

Birth date: March 15, 1969

Birthplace: North Adams

Occupation: Seventh grade language arts and social studies teacher at Adams Memorial Middle School (AMMS).

How I would describe myself: I am committed to life-long learning and growth. I believe in always having goals to work toward and am driven to achieve each that I set.

Current volunteerism, board memberships, etc.: Stamford School director; teacher liaison; library board liaison; member, Adams-Cheshire Regional School District’s Strategic Planning Committee; Co-chairwoman AMMS Parent-Teacher Cooperative; member, AMMS School Council; Community Service-Learning Coordinator; School coordinator, Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program; volunteer announcer, North Adams Babe Ruth League; volunteer, animal organizations.

Family: I have been married to my husband, Thomas Morandi, for five years and I have a 16-year-old stepson, T.J.

Education: M.Ed., B.S. and B.A., Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts; graduate of Berkshire Leadership Academy.

Personal hero/role model: I most admire my father, James Roberts.

Why is this person a hero/role model to you?: He taught me the importance of volunteerism and demonstrated the skills needed to balance it with personal and professional commitments.

Personal achievement(s) of which you are most proud: I was fortunate enough to co-develop an animal therapy program that led to an Animal Planet producer and film crew visiting the school and working with my students while taping. For most of us, this was a once-in-a-lifetime chance and an incredible opportunity for my students to learn about the television industry. This national coverage prompted schools around the country to consider programs, and my students have helped to educate others about the value of animal therapy. I am also very proud of my 17 years of service to the Fall Foliage Parade Committee and the opportunity the Chamber of Commerce gave me to take a children’s pet show and turn it into an informative, educational program.

Personal quote/trademark expression: “I’ll do it!”

The best advice you can give someone: When setting goals, always be realistic, but never hesitate to dream.

Most recent book read and author’s name: “Longitudes and Attitudes,” by Thomas L. Friedman.

Favorite TV show: “Law and Order”

Pet peeve: Drivers who don’t stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk.

Hobbies/interests: Golf, gardening, reading.