I always hoped to find inspiration & connection with a teacher to be able to feel safe in the classroom. Struggling to find that, created a disconnect in my academic journey. I became a teacher because I wanted to become a positive influence & role model to the youth. I wanted to show them that there are adults other than parents/guardians who care about them & want them to be successful. As an educator I want to help them realize their full potential & understand their individual worth.

My very first class of students that I ever taught, invited me to speak at their 8th grade promotion, even 2 years after I left their school for another opportunity. The day they asked me to be their guest speaker, they shared with me all the impactful things I had done for them during their time in my class.

With the $25,000, I would love to be able to invest in my own children's educational experience and pay off some of my college debt.