I became a teacher because I wanted to make a difference in the world. I felt that in order to do that, I needed to be in a field that would help shape the future. It sounds cliche but it’s the truth. One of my all time favorite songs sang by Whitney Houston inspired me growing up “The Greatest Love of All” resonates with what I believe and who I am.

That would have to be a letter I received from one of my 1st graders after we returned from Winter Break. I was feeling a bit discouraged but she gave me the letter at the perfect time. She was one of my struggling readers, and yet her letter of kindness and gratitude helped me see the difference I was making and proved to me that my teaching was effective and learning gains were happening. It helped me tremendously and I’ll keep it for as long as I live.

If I was fortunate enough to win, I would give a portion to Anchor House Ministries who are committed to helping boys in crisis. I would use the remaining to pay off debt and provide my family a more reliable transportation, as our current vehicle is having issues.