Occupation: I’ve been a reading specialist for more than 30 years for children with special needs, including dyslexia. I love it.

Family: My husband is Gene Cox. I have two sons. My son Aaron and my daughter-in-law, Amy, live next door to me. My son Bruce lives in Ohio and works at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. Both my boys grew up in town and went through the Newtown school system. I also have two grandsons, two granddaughters, and many wonderful friendships.

Pets: We have a greyhound named Tea Cup. She is 9 years old. We adopted her from a rescue in Agawam, Mass.

How long have you lived in Newtown? I came to Newtown in 1955 as a child. We moved from Long Island. My dad, Mr Lemb, used to direct the Teen Canteen upstairs at the Edmond Town Hall.

What do you like to do in your free time? I like to go to Narragansett, R.I., and spend time with my family on the campgrounds with our new trailer. My grandchildren take turns staying there with us.

Do you have a favorite book or author? I like to read anything pertaining to dyslexia education. I enjoy books written by Dr Sally Shaywitz, who is a co-director of the Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity, and Dr Nancy Boyles from Southern Connecticut State University.

What is your favorite travel destination? I traveled all over the United States when my husband was in the service. Some of the most amazing experiences I have had traveling was when my sons both sang with the Newtown High School choir and traveled internationally. My oldest son sang in the Soviet Union and my youngest son sang in Italy.

How can Newtown improve? I love being a part of the Newtown Planning & Zoning Committee. I try to listen to what the people want. I believe more business in Newtown would help to increase the tax base. My motto is, “I’m from Newtown, for Newtown.”

What organizations are you part of locally? In addition to being on the Newtown Planning & Zoning Committee, I am part of the Cullens Youth Association. Both my sons were Eagle Scouts, and the Cullens Youth Association sponsors Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. I’m also on the Christian Education Committee for Bridgewater Congregational Church and part of the American Labor Chapter (ALC) in Danbury, which helps support people advocating for change in the workplace. Currently, we are working on feeding the homeless through ALC.

Do you have a favorite TV show? Walker, Texas Ranger. I love westerns.

What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever been given? Be honest, work hard, and you will achieve.

What is something you cannot live without? My iPad.

What is your proudest accomplishment? My education and special training.