Tell us why you became a teacher

I started teaching because I wanted to share my passion for the importance of stories: how we communicate and shape our own stories, how we hear and take in others’ stories, and what we do with that accumulated knowledge to forge future stories. Stories tie us together, and that is needed now more than ever. Hearing and understanding stories creates empathy, and pairing that with critical thinking is crucial for the young generation’s future success.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most recent memorable teaching experience occurred outside the classroom when I took students on a 3-day trip down the Colorado River. We spent our days in rafts and hiking side canyons, explored petroglyphs, admired the wildlife and stars, and discussed our relationship with nature and obligation to protect it. Most had never done anything like that and it was a magical, awe-inspiring experience that brought a new joy of being outdoors and renewed camaraderie amongst their peers.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I lead international student trips every 2-3 years and have always wanted to do some sort of scholarship to help those who cannot afford it be able to have the experience. I believe international travel is so incredibly important in order to experience new cultures and expand comfort zones, which aids students in developing empathy and critical thinking. Because I teach in a largely underserved area, a scholarship would enable more students to have this opportunity!