Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of the tremendous impact that school and teachers had on my life. Growing up in a single parent home, my mom put a lot of trust and faith in my teachers, coaches, and other activity adults to guide me through my youth and young adulthood. I knew very early on that I wanted to be one of those adults when I grew up. I feel that teaching is more than a job or a career, it is a true calling, driven by love, passion, empathy, and dedication.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I have been so fortunate in my 15 years of teaching to experience so many memorable moments. Most memorable, and yes there is likely some recency bias, has been this past fall when a former student, who played football for me, and helped start our drama program came back to meet with and mentor current students. To hear him talk about all his experiences from his time at our school, and how it has guided him to his own career in education and service was powerful and emotional.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With football, theatre, and numerous classes there are so many options for what to do with this generous amount of money. But actually the linking education practice that unites them all, and is I believe the biggest impact for my kids is: Student Travel. I have led and fundraised for trips across the country and I feel travel changes student lives and creates equity like nothing else.