Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of my second-grade teacher, Mrs. Perkins. As a struggling reader, she never gave up on me, patiently working on phonics and sight words week after week. She encouraged me to explore any book I found interesting and never said, "That book is too hard for you." Her belief in me and her hugs when I succeeded gave me confidence. Just as she promised, it all eventually clicked, and I could read. Her impact inspired me to help others the same way.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching moments was when a former student wrote an essay calling me their everyday hero. They shared that I saw each student as an individual, learned about their families, interests, and challenges, and helped them believe in the power of "yet." Their words, "Mrs. Carlson sees ME!" deeply impacted me, reminding me of the power of connection and encouragement in the classroom.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would use it to support my children’s education. As the first in my family to attend college, I put myself through school, a credential program, and a master’s degree with loans that took 20 years to repay. Now, with three children in college—a senior and two juniors—I’m doing everything I can to help them graduate without the burden of loans. I have all I need; they need my help more. At home and in the classroom, everything I do is for the kids.