Emily Raper graduated from Lee in 2013 with a degree in human development and minors in psychology, Bible, and a K-8 teaching license. She is currently in her 13th year teaching elementary education at the new Candy’s Creek Cherokee Elementary School in Cleveland. Over her 13 years of experience, she has taught Kindergarten, first, second, and fourth grade. According to Emily, it wasn’t always easy to start over in a brand new school, classroom, or grade, but Lee University gave her the tools and strategies she needed to be successful no matter what grade she taught or situation she faced. “I have been blessed over the years to be named teacher of the year in both Bradley County and Cleveland City Schools, received the Golden Apple Award for excellence in teaching, and named Tennessee Tech’s Mentor Teacher of the year,” said Emily. “My career and accomplishments would not be possible without Lee’s knowledgeable and caring education department.”