Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

Too many teens go through way too much that they shouldn’t. There are kids feeling trapped or lost in fractured families who want a sense of normalcy and hope. I traveled the world while in the Marine Corps and saw how compassion can counter tragedy. I want to bring that love I’ve experienced to teens who need to feel a supportive foundation under their feet before they are sent off into the world beyond high school. These students just want someone to see and hear them and I’m here for them!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Alongside my daily environmental science lessons I have the privilege of hosting the incredible milestone events of high school: pep rallies, homecoming, and prom. “Tradition, Spirit, Unity” is my mantra. I get to set the stage for teens’ personalities to come alive in settings outside the classroom. I can’t possibly relate a single memorable experience out of so many unique unfolding stories. These kids grow up so fast in so short a time. You have no idea how many treasured pictures I have!

What would you do with the $25,000?

High school is where so many core lifetime memories are made whether you like them or not. I’d prefer that kids like them. I’d make sure that students at my school don’t have to miss homecoming or prom due to financial hardship. I’d help seniors pay for their caps and gowns, senior portraits, and yearbooks. I don’t have my senior yearbook because I couldn’t afford it. Money shouldn’t be an obstacle to having the full high school experience.