Tell us why you became a teacher

Growing up, my father was an elementary school art teacher but I attended a different school. After he passed in 2005, I wound up meeting a lot of his former students as I moved on to middle school, and it showed me just how big of an impact he made on them. These testimonies followed me all the way into college- stories of how he inspired them to actually like art or pursue creative careers. Teaching is quite literally in my genes and despite its challenges, I know that I’m moving in purpose.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had given my early finishers a color by numbers worksheet with multiplication. One of my students was showing zero interest in the assignment, and it turned out to be because he struggled in math. So I decided to brush the cobwebs off my math skills and sit down to show him the method I remember learning in school. Although he was a tad embarrassed, he appreciated me taking the time to pour into him outside of art. It was a reminder that I’m not just an art teacher, but an educator at heart.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Initially I’d invest in funding local artists and members of the creative community to work with students & show them that art is alive and well outside of the classroom. Our scholars need mentorship & shining examples of how to just be good people in this world. Many never get to see outside their neighborhood & their brilliant talent just goes unnoticed. Building a sustainable, supportive community for them to have access to is important to me. Then of course I’d take a well deserved vacation!