Tell us why you became a teacher

I wanted to be the teacher that I never had, but prayed so hard to find. I struggled with reading/writing and math so school was always so frustrating. I went for extra help before and after school, but it just never helped. By the end of my junior year I finally figured how to teach myself the material. I knew that I wanted to help students who struggled so they would not feel the mix of emotions that I did on a daily basis. I am grateful to be a part of so many children's/teens journeys!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I am fortunate to say that I have a few, but I would have to say it would be teaching my student Joe. Joe had/has a wide range of disabilities, from severe LD to PDD and other issues. He came to me for tutoring when he was in 10th grade, but reading at a 2nd grade level. We worked so hard and in 1.5 years he was reading at grade level! He now loves to read and will often read 1 book each day! His confidence is off the charts and he is happy! Watching his progress was THE BEST!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would donate a portion of the money to a few schools that are struggling and need supplies/materials/books. My goal would be to provide a few schools with a wonderful donation that can impact current and future students. I want the money to make an impact that lasts into the future for each school. I would certainly purchase a large amount of books for each school, but I would want to see what else the schools may need and donate as much as possible.