Tell us why you became a teacher

I always wanted to be a teacher even though I didn't have the best experience growing up in public school. I was bullied heavily and in so many ways. I wanted to be the teacher I wish I had growing up. Now I teach art and computer science! I teach kids about freedom of expression and also about our responsibility as global citizens.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had a student last year who really struggled with coding. I gave her some resources that helped me when I was struggling to learn code as an adult. We sat down and went over material until she got it. After taking my class, she wants to be a computer scientist! #morewomeninsteam!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I really want to make a functional 3D lab. We were supposed to get one but funding was cut. We are a small school in East Harlem with a limited budget so it's hard to start new programs. We really want to continue expanding STEAM programs in our school.