Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher so that I could make a difference. I remembered my teachers growing up that positively affected my life in so many ways, and I wanted to leave the same impact on kids. Teachers wear so many hats - and leaving an impact on my kids each year is the ultimate goal. Inspiring each of them to be who they want to be and to find the shining light in all of them so that they can see it too is so fulfilling.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I’ve taught both K-12 and at the collegiate level. In one of my college courses, which was for future teachers, they asked me why the classroom to prison pipeline conversation was such a hot topic and big deal. We live in Mississippi, so this is important to understand. I was able to break down a long history of inequities to them in a way they would get. Seeing the lightbulb go off in their heads once they understood the importance and our role as teachers in that topic was truly rewarding.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’m expecting my first baby in July and we are so overjoyed! But, I live in a state where there is no paid maternity leave, so I would use the money to stay home as long as I can with my baby. As of right now, I will only have about 3 weeks paid with my PTO days saved up. To not have to worry about money during this sweet time as a first time mom would be a massive blessing since we cannot survive on one income.