Tell us why you became a teacher

I struggled in school when I was was younger. It didn't come easy and I had to work really hard at it. I had to find tricks, acronyms, games, and I even made up songs to help me remember and learn as I went through school. I became to love kids and I soon realized I wanted to be a teacher. I wanted to be the teacher that could relate and understand what is was like to struggle, need things taught uniquely or differently, and show my passion of learning while loving kids at the same time.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I often hear former students tell me how I made learning fun through my songs, games, and tricks that I used in class. However, my most memorable experience came when a former 2nd grade student asked me if she could come back to my room as a cadet teacher. She told me I was her favorite teacher and how much she loved and learned in my class. To know that you've made an impact and are still remembered 10+ years later, that bought me to tears and helps to remind me that this job is worth it!

What would you do with the $25,000?

This award would be my dream! I would have originally told you I would use the money to go to Hawaii. My husband and I never took a honey moon, and it's my dream vacation. However, that is included; so, I can't even imagine!! Therefore, I'm such a practical person, I would use it toward my student loans and/or redoing my bathrooms in my home. We bought a 130 year old foreclosure home that we're fixing little by little ourselves. This would take a huge burden and necessity off our list.