Tell us why you became a teacher

I had amazing teachers that never gave up on me. Regardless of my home life, school was my sacred ground and safe place. I want to give back just a little of what was afforded to me.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

When I saw a student that could not count before being in my class, count using one-to-one correspondence, I knew I was in the right career. It might seem like nothing to most teachers, but it was huge for me and the student as well. He was 17 years old.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would pay off some bills and take a much needed family vacation.