Sharon High French Teacher Wears State's Teacher of the Year Crown

says she is living a childhood dream.

Today, being named 2013 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year -- the state's candidate for National Teacher of the Year --became part of Turner's magical adventure.

Massachusetts Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester recognized Turner during a special ceremony in the school gymnasium, in front of her family, peers, the Sharon High School student body, state officials and officials from Hannaford Supermarkets, which partners with the Patrick-Murray Administration to administer the program.

Turner, who sat beside her parents during the ceremony, noted that she first dreamed of becoming a high school French teacher after the first day of her eighth grade French class in Northbridge, her hometown.

She entered the Sharon High gym today escorted by two Sharon High students, walking along a white carpet and between two rows of cheering students.

"I have never once questioned my career path, and cannot imagine doing anything else," Turner told the crowd.

Turner, who has taught at Sharon High for 18 years, was among six Massachusetts Teacher of the Year finalists this year.

As the Massachusetts Teacher of the Year, Turner will receive a $3,000 grant from Hannaford, Chester's office said in a press release. She also will attend an awards ceremony in June.

Chester noted to the crowd that this week, May 7 to May 11, is National Teacher Appreciation Week.