Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe in the transformative power of education. Growing up, I saw firsthand how access to caring, committed educators could change lives, and I wanted to be that for someone else. Many of my students come from under-resourced communities and face challenges that extend far beyond the classroom. For me, teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it's about creating an environment where students feel seen, valued, and capable of achieving greatness.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences involved a student who arrived mid-year as a newcomer to the U.S. with little knowledge of English. At first, they were shy, overwhelmed, and hesitant to participate in class. Over time, through intentional relationship-building, tailored instruction, and encouragement, they began to flourish. I’ll never forget the day they stood in front of the class to present a project in English—nervous but determined. The entire class cheered for them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,00 First, I would expand access to literacy tools, ensuring all students have adequate resources to support their learning at home and in school. Many of my students are multi-language learners, so I would purchase bilingual books, language learning software, and culturally responsive materials to better engage them and support their growth. I would organize workshops and events for parents and caregivers, offering them tools to support their children's education at home.