I became a teacher because of the inspiration I found in my second-grade teacher. She entrusted me with tutoring a fellow student, and that experience sparked my passion for helping others academically. I realized the power of providing support and building foundational skills, which can shape a student's success. This experience led me to pursue a career where I can make a difference by helping others grow and succeed, especially in the critical early stages of their education.

In my second year of teaching, I was given a tough group of 5th graders, many of whom had behavioral challenges outside the classroom. It was difficult at first, but I saw their potential beyond their struggles. I was trusted with the opportunity to help them grow, and through patience and consistent support, they began to flourish academically. Witnessing their transformation and realizing I could make a real difference in their lives was an incredibly rewarding and memorable moment.

If I had $25,000, I’d prioritize both personal and professional growth for myself and my children. I’d invest in furthering my education with advanced courses to enhance my teaching methods and leadership skills. I’d allocate funds to create an innovative classroom with new headphone, books, and hands-on materials to support student learning. A portion would be saved for future opportunities, while I’d also use some for personal wellness and creating meaningful experiences with my children.