Next week, the best CrossFit athletes in North America will head to Vegas to compete in the West Coast CrossFit semis. A Commack native will be there, and she's bringing her homework.

Kristine Best is a third-grade teacher at Babylon Elementary School. She's also the No. 14 ranked CrossFit athlete in the country.

Her day starts with seven hours at work, then she works out at a Bohemia gym for two hours, five days a week.

"I feel like I balance both pretty well," she says. "I have to give all my effort here and also there."

Best is attempting to qualify again for the CrossFit Games, and she's preparing for anything that may come her way -- from gymnastics to weightlifting and endurance.

Best also tries to mix in a bit of health to her school lessons. Her students have overwhelmingly approved.

The West Coast Semifinals begin June 18.