Tell us why you became a teacher

Honestly, I hated school growing up. I was never a bad kid but I had ADHD that went undiagnosed so I couldn’t retain information and really struggled. I almost dropped out of school and became a contractor with my father but baseball kept me at a 2.0 and a diploma. I played baseball at a local JC and afterwards became a coach. That’s when everything clicked for me. I knew I was good with students. I went from coaching to athletic directing to teaching. It’s been a journey but I’m blessed.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There’s a lot to choose from. My favorite is working with my student Truly. She was a 3rd grader that was non verbal and her gross motor skills were below kindergarten. Admin suggested county but me and the SPED team knew we couldn’t lose her. We worked tireless daily. She would help me teach my PE class. Eventually she found her voice and she couldn’t stop talking. We eventually got her gross motor skills caught up and she passed the mile fitness test. She is my forever hero and inspiration.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’ve been with the school district since 2011 but as a student since 1993. We have never had a gymnasium or multipurpose room. Our small district in Helendale, CA is growing rapidly and we could really use the space.