My name is Sister Rose and I volunteer at the Early Learning Center three times a week.  I am from Upper state New York, my parents, Italian immigrants raised me until I graduated from high school.  After high school I joined the Sisters of the Holy Names.  I loved teaching preschool and first graders in Portland, Tacoma and the Seattle area.  I spent the next 17 years in Arequipa, Peru as a teacher and principal.  When I returned I became Director of Religious Education at the Catholic Church in Wapato.  After 52 years of teaching, I retired.  I now enjoy volunteering at the Early Learning Center and spending time with the children and staff.  As long as my energy and health allow, I will continue to sing songs and play games with the children.