Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I love to sing and wanted to have a job in music. I stayed a teacher because I am passionate about music and I love sharing it with students. I have taught choral music for 25 years and at every level, and it is awesome to watch a choir work hard to produce something they are proud of. I really enjoy being a part of the moment students realize they can read music.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most recent memorable moments was when we were working on the musical. The students were learning a three part section and I split them into groups containing a mixture of choir and non choir students. I asked them to work on their section and in every group one of the choir kids taught the part (on their own) to the others in the group. I had one of those huge proud teacher moments. We had trained them so well they were teaching and so proud of what they accomplished.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would travel. I love to go out and experience new places. I would plan some epic trips and photograph it all.