Tell us why you became a teacher

I did not seek to become a teacher. Little did I know it was exactly what I was called to do. I became a special education teacher because I fell in love with working with my students and their individual needs. Getting to help them accomplish their goals in the 3 years I have with them while they are in middle school is inspiring. Getting to support them and teach them how to be able to advocate for their needs and show them they are capable of anything even though they have challenges.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable experience has been with my group of 8th graders this year. We are like a family. In our classroom, we have a wood pallet that represents a pact we made together. It represents that our words matter. They each hammered a nail while thinking about something they said either hateful to themselves or someone else. When we took the nails out there was still a hole. This shows them that they can apologize but it still leaves a mark. It's our mission to show that kindness matters.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 to provide more for my students in the classroom with more alternative seating and supports for them. I would also use it to be able to provide a gift for each of them at the end of their 8th-grade year to show them how much they provide to the world and that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Showing them that they are a light in this world and anything is possible. I would also use the money to help pay off some of my student loans.