Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I tried other things—sales, retail, serving—but teaching was in my blood. Coming from a family of educators, I eventually found my way back to the classroom and knew I was home. Watching kids build confidence, discover their creativity, and surprise themselves daily with their capabilities is nothing short of magic. Teaching art isn’t just a job—it’s the best job on planet earth! And honestly? I can’t imagine doing anything else!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One day, my school pulled a fake fire drill—400 kids and all staff waiting outside. But instead of an emergency, they were chanting my name! My family and fiancé were there, and a radio station presented me with a Teacher of the Month award. I still have the signs and cards the kids made. It was a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and to this day, my students still think I’m famous.

What would you do with the $25,000?

My fiancé and I have been engaged since July 2023, but weddings are impossibly expensive—especially on a teacher’s salary! This would help us finally make it happen. I’m currently going for my National Board Certification, so some money would go to that… And, of course, a little extra would go toward my classroom (because teachers always do that). But mostly, we’d be celebrating our big day— hopefully with a few touches of art from my students, because teaching isn’t just my job, it’s my life!