Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to ensure that there were more teachers like Ms.Koski (my 2nd grade teacher) in the world. She was there for me academically (as an EL) but also there for me as a person. Someone I will always remember. Teaching is my way of giving back and helping mold our future leaders into capable, caring individuals.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I have several memorable experiences teaching. One example would have to be when my students get that “aha” moment of understanding a new subject. My second one is when past students or their siblings come to visit my classroom, and tell me the impact I made in their lives. Things they remember from class or something personal. It really makes it all worth it.

What would you do with the $25,000?

$25,000 would be a big help. I would use it to donate directly to schools to help them support their students’ needs. In addition, I would donate to support the reach of STEM programs to underfunded schools, as a science teacher I know they so well need.