Tell us why you became a teacher

I was in college when I first found a teacher who taught me conceptually and how to think, not just memorize. Once I found out that I HAD to share it. Conceptually math and science has to be shared. I became a teacher and then a teacher of teachers. It’s a real rush to see the lightbulbs go on over students’ heads! I love it.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

When I first learned about metacognition in 1998 and I tried it out by asking one of my 6th graders about the thought process he used to solve a math problem. I expected he would explain it just the way I thought about it, but he came back with an explanation I had never considered. I realized how much I never knew I never knew. It blew me away. I was hooked and wanted more. I got my doctorate so I could teach other teachers about all the wonderful things I was learning from my students!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I want to retire soon and set up a summer gardening camp on my property on the Cedar River in Renton, WA. Currently I manage a small school garden at my school and teaching kids about permaculture gardening and food forests. I want teach about companion planting and sustainability and show the mental health benefits from playing in the dirt! I would set up a community garden on my property and teach classes. I’d also travel to other gardens for ideas and inspiration.