Tell us why you became a teacher

I because a teacher because ever since I was 5 I know I wanted to be one. I would play school with my sister and the neighbor kids. I also had a wonderful group of teachers that continued to inspire me as to why I wanted to be a teacher.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was when I had a student with autism in my special education classroom. We worked so hard all year building and establishing a routine to help him be successful in the school setting. By the end of the year, he was able to communicate clearly with assistive technology, follow a visual schedule, and complete work tasks independently and with adult support. It was amazing! Hard work truly pays off.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to use the $25,000 to help our school buy more resources for putting together a sensory room that is available for all children to use, not just children with disabilities. There are so many children that need movement breaks at this room would support.