Tell us why you became a teacher

Mrs. Green was my 2nd grade teacher. I thought she was fabulous and wanted to be like her. I have a passion for helping students grow their skills and teaching them to be kind and respectful young citizens! My job is different every day, which makes it interesting and fun. I knew I wanted to be a difference maker and teaching has helped me attain that goal.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Seven years ago, a student from my class suddenly moved without getting to say goodbye.I had all of the students write a message on their white boards saying what they liked about that peer or saying what they would miss about her.I took their pictures with their boards.We made a book with the pictures and I added it to the bag with her school stuff that her mom picked up. This fall, I saw the student at a local grocery store. She gave me a hug and thanked me for the keepsake from first grade.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I pay for many items each school year to enhance my lessons and engage my students.I would set aside some of the money to be used over time to support that mission.I have 3 kids at home and in college.Time all together as a family can be difficult.I would love to take them to North Carolina to see their cousins.I may use some of the money to travel to Norway (where my great grandparents immigrated from). Finally, it is a good idea to save when you are a homeowner! So the rest would be saved.