Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe music is for everyone and I believe music can change the world. I believe music education is something everyone can benefit from and it is often overlooked and not thought of as core content. I wanted to share my passion with others and make a difference in the world of music education. I wanted to be the foundation for music education for help my students learn to love music.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I think my most memorable would have to be from the second year I taught. I had a student with Fragile X syndrome who was severely mentally handicapped. He loved coming to my class. I remember giving him a drum and thinking that it was probably a mistake and he would probably play all kinds of crazy wrong notes. I was completely shocked when he played the steadiest beat I had ever heard because of his internal tempo. That was the day I realized that music really is for all.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won the $25,000, I would use the money to better my music program. I would replace and repair instruments that are broken or in need of repair, buy a new set of Orff instruments, and buy outdoor musical instrument equipment for our playgrounds.