Denise Atchley

I was born and raised in South Texas with my sister and two brothers. My loving mother, who died from lupus at the young age of 42, was the one who instilled the belief that I can achieve my dreams with perseverance and dedication. After attending Del Mar College, where I received an A.A.S. Degree in Legal Secretary, I worked for a law firm for about five years. During this employment, I married my loving husband. I was then blessed with my first son, which prompted the choice to become a teacher so that I could spend more time with him. My choice led me to Texas A & M University—Corpus Christi, where I received a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in English. I was then rewarded with a degree and my second son within a month of each other. Right after receiving my degree, I was hired as a teacher and have been teaching for the past 18 years. I have taught just about all levels, from kindergarten to high school English and technology. Through the years, my passion for literature has grown deeper with the enjoyment of watching the words come to life through my students’ eyes and reading and editing numerous compositions. ​Due to the fact that I have taught many students, including my own two boys, I have had the privilege of being a part of several educational careers. It has been my pleasure watching them grow, but it also been a personal struggle watching many struggle with the expectations and confinement of the public school system. This struggle brought about the desire to write Imitation Me. I still reside in South Texas with my loving husband and three energetic dogs. My older son graduated from Texas A & M University--Gig'em! He also works in the oilfield while starting up his own company. My youngest son attends Texas State University, which is conveniently located near the outlet malls. Both of my sons are still my life and will forever carry a piece of my heart.