A slice of Student Life

Readers can get a behind-the-scenes view of California High School math teacher Vickie Hemphill on this Monday's Student Life page, where we're highlighting her for being named the 2008-09 Teacher of the Year at the Whittier Union High School District.

She reveals why she become a teacher -- and in particular, why she's so passionate about mathematics and helping students learn it.

We've also got some Whittier-area students who made the National Honor Roll. For high-school seniors and college-bound students, we include a couple of opportunities to compete for some extra money to help them pay for their studies.

Our team of student panelists talk about schools and libraries, and journalist/mom Anissa Rivera shares the latest about her experiences as a stay-at-home mom of two rambunctious young boys.