Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I want to use, find, or develop innovative ways to support and challenge students to grow inside and outside my classroom. Additionally, as a teacher I want to develop relationships with families and within the community that foster a commitment to and passion for learning.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

This year, a kindergarten student I was working with was struggling to complete her coding project.I encouraged her not to give up and remind her she can do hard things. She made multiple attempts and eventually was successful in completing her code. The best parts of this experience were the student proclaiming “I can do hard things” and telling me school is so much fun when I was there too. I recently had returned from maternity leave so her remark was very meaningful to me.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With the $25,000 I would go back to school to complete a PhD in education with a focus on school leadership and policy. I would create an indoor/outdoor kennel space at my house to partner with the humane society to foster dogs. Lastly, I would use the remaining money to take a family vacation!