Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher by accident. I had a degree in history and English, and my old high school, a small private school, needed a teacher. I needed a job. I told the principal I would do a test run for a month. In three days I was hooked!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I have many memorable teaching moments and experiences but one that sticks out most is that of my first "real" AP Language class when one of my students recognized how much progress she had made in her writing over a semester. She was in such shock she didn't even recognize the earlier writings as her own.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use it to pay off debt and for some new opportunities for my National English Honor Club students. They work really hard at building and sustaining our chapter so a field trip would be a great way to show some appreciation for all their hard work.