Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher based on special seeds ESE (exceptional student education). ESE students are specialized seeds that require extra love and care for their future growth. Each seed has a unique way to grow and learn. ESE students have disabilities, concerns, and behaviors. My final choice was teaching kindergarten to fifth grade ESE students. I have found the right ground for my seeds to be planted and grow.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable experience was when I was teaching at Beverly Shores Elementary, my morning duty was to supervise students during morning breakfast, (getting them through the breakfast line promptly). Every morning a young male 1st grade, who was nonverbal, would enter the line, I would say “good morning handsome”, One day before Christmas break, he looks at me and said “I luv you”. Best Christmas gift ever. The next year he was placed in my class and became one of my best students.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would buy items needed for my student’s educational growth. ESE (exceptional education students) require different tools to advance their learning. The first item would be Learning Ally, an online educational tool that provides reading online. Second, I would streamline my classroom with a full makeover and a reading nook. Third, monthly celebrations for my students. Lastly, I would like to secure bank funds for community-based field trips for the next 5 years.