Tell us why you became a teacher

I have known I wanted to be a teacher since 5th. Grade playing school. It is a calling that I take very serious.I am the first African-American National Board Certified Teacher (GA)w/38 years of teaching experience. I have no desire to retire any time soon. I love teaching and facilitating teacher development. I desire a world with a well prepared teaching force and I want to contribute to that vision. Children deserve the best teacher teaching them and I am the best which was my personal goal.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

In 2004 I was shot 6 times by my ex- husband. I am a DV Survivor and use my story to help others. In 2005 with 4 bullets still remaining in my body I returned to my first love, teaching! In 2008, I developed a PLC for teachers based on NB Take 1 that became a world wide model for training and sustaining teachers under the supervision of Dr. Flounnory. I am a trained Advocate for DV and ensure that children are aware of the impact. My desire is for students to be taught well and to feel safe.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Living with 4 bullets I will first pay off my medical bills and spend the rest on my students . Starting with a world class library/listening center for my classroom.I want books w/different cultures/levels thatcovers 1 wall. Lastly,buy resources that help my students Social Emotional Learning/trauma. Especially the impact of domestic violence. Students need to learn early how to communicate with each other and resolve conflict so DV won’t be their experience. Students can’t learn traumatized!