Tell us why you became a teacher

I want to make a difference during those early, formative years when children are learning about themselves & the world around them. Building connection is such a gift, & it makes a huge difference in how children learn & feel supported as they begin their educational journey. It’s important for me to create a rich, place-based learning environment rooted in justice that empowers students to become environmentally, socially, emotionally, & academically literate and who are collectively inspired.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Planning/facilitating a Storyline unit circled around learning about the self & how we're all unique/different. Kids did a deep dive into learning about themselves & what makes them unique. At the end of the unit, we had a parade-a huge, school-wide celebration where families & community were invited to watch them celebrate their individuality. They spent a lot of time in the weeks prior making parade floats out of shoe boxes and decorating them with artifacts that represent them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use it to fund classroom supplies & opportunities for students outside of school, like field trips/enrichment programs. I’d also love to use some to help pay for my Art endorsement and professional development opportunities. I could make such a big impact in multiple areas-enhancing the classroom, supporting students' experiences beyond school, & really creating opportunities for growth. I would build on units-creating more hands-on projects/bringing in special guest speakers & materials