A high school Latin teacher from Fredericksburg, Virginia...

Lori Kissell

Students: "Good luck, Ms. Kissell! Go Eagles!"

I'm Lori Kissell, I teach high school Latin, ninth through twelfth grade, at Liberty High School, Bealeton, Virginia.

What made you choose teaching as a career?
It's in the family. My mom was a teacher. And I did a whole bunch of jobs before I got here, and I realized that's what I liked best--sharing what I know with the kids to--so they know more.

How did your students react when they found out you made it on Jeopardy!?
They were thrilled that I made it on Jeopardy! They know I've been, uh, dying to do this for a long time. The only days I ever miss are Jeopardy! audition days. And, so, I've had kids stick their heads in for months, asking, "Haveyougottenacall? Haveyougottenacall? Haveyougottenacall? Areyougoingareyougoingareyougoingareyougoing?" And when I could finally open my mouth and say "Yes," I have just been overwhelmed with their joy and support through all of this. They've been awesome.

What is your dream category?
Anything Roman would be terrific. Hint-hint hint-hint hint-hint. Um, VOCABULARY would be great, too.

Tune in! You might learn a thing or two!

"She loves everything about Latin and shares that love with her students. From Fredericksburg, Virginia, here is..."

2011 Teachers Tournament 1st runner-up: $50,000.

Lori teaches at Liberty High School in Bealeton, Virginia.

Last name pronounced like "kih-SELL".