Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I was led to teach, but the journey to this goal was winding. After 4.5 years of serving in the Marine Corps and traveling around the world, I became a private and legal investigator. However, the need to teach grew in my heart, and I earned a college degree to make this dream a reality. Because I was called, I knew it was my mission to make a difference in the life of a student. Because I don't know which student, I have to treat each as if they are the one.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There have been many memorable moments, but the most gratifying relate to the relationships I have with students built on mutual respect. My students know I genuinely care about them. Each one knows he or she is my favorite. When I capture their hearts, I earn their attention, and I get to see their confidence grow and their lives change. They remind me of these moments when I see them even years later.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Teaching is a labor of love. Teachers earn a living wage, but some needs often go unmet. In my household we have neglected home improvement projects. We were saving toward floors and a bathroom renovation but the funds were diverted to storm cleanup after Hurricane Helene tore through our area. I would be grateful to win $25,000 to apply toward our much needed home improvement projects.