Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

As a student I struggled a lot in school and hated going. I had a difficult time feeling supported by teachers. I was often made to feel like a burden. So I decided to become a teacher to be the teacher I never had. I became a teacher to be the change. To make sure every student I teach knows they are loved and supported.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

It might be cliché but I can't give just one memorable moment. Every day I teach is memorable. Field trips, assemblies and special events at school are of course memorable. The best though are the every day moments. The inside jokes you make with your students. The connections and conversations. The life lessons you walk away learning from them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 to help support my Garden and Nature Club. I teach in the a Title 1 public school in Queens. My students have limited exposure to nature. I started my schools first garden and nature club to bring the love of the outdoors to my students. We have learned about different animals,plants and even have done science experiments. I would use the money to help make a community and hydroponic garden for my students. This can be something I can bring school wide as well.