The sound of the alarm clock echoes through Allison Merrell’s bedroom. Before beginning another one of her busy days, she takes some time to plan out its events. As she sits down with her cup of morning coffee, she takes a few minutes to enjoy what will be the most relaxing part of her day.

With her perfect time-management skills and her orderly sequential mindset, it seems that nothing is impossible for Merrell. She is a health teacher, varsity volleyball coach and Peer Assistance and Leadership Service (PALS) sponsor.

Merrell teaches one class of health and coaches two periods of volleyball. Additionally, she has three classes of PALS, which is an off campus class that requires Merrell to go to three different elementary schools a day. With the responsibility of managing these classes, Merrell has become adaptable of change as every day is full of new experiences.

“One of the greatest parts of my job is that there is never a day that is the same,” said Merrell. “Knowing that every day is going to be different is a blessing in my eyes because that makes it fun.”

Even though Merrell’s schedule is busy, she loves everything about her job. However, she did not always know that she wanted to be a teacher. She was originally on the pre-dental path in college and found her passion for coaching and teaching when she accidentally took an education course.

“The best part about my job is my relationship with my students,” said Merrell. “Whatever I do is for them and I cannot imagine working in any other profession.”