Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of my kindergarten teacher. She made her classroom feel like home and I knew I wanted to be just like her when I grew up. I have created a classroom community that is very welcoming and my students feel safe. I couldn’t have become the teacher I am today without my kindergarten teacher.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

This is only my second year teaching but I have already had so many memorable moments. I must say my favorite experience is doing a map project where student create a map from our school to their house. After school one day I drive the maps and visit each house. I give the students a prize and get a picture with them. I still hear from former students how much this project impacted them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With the $25,000 I would use it towards my classroom, there is so many things I can buy. My school is title 1 and I don’t like to put the burden on parents to provide certain things. I will always take out of my pocket before asking parents to provide because of some of their situations.