Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to be an integral part of influencing pivotal change by fostering safe learning spaces where children are free to be themselves, grow confidence & master literacy. In my youth, my teachers used their power to hold me down & shame me for my exploration of freedom & authenticity. As a queer disabled person, I was never welcomed let alone celebrated in my pursuit of knowledge which led me to the false belief that I didn't deserve to be successful or even reach adulthood.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I have worked in Title 1 schools for 10 years working with children with disabilities. My most memorable teaching experiences revolve around breaking barriers to literacy & advocating for trans youth whether working with kids who are discovering their truths and fostering their self-love or with parents/families to better understand their children, collaborating with them to navigate journeys together and challenging the notion these lessons don't belong in schools, as they literally save lives.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to use the $25,000 for educational service for LGBTQ community in public schools, connecting trans youth to resources & elder trans mentors. Representation offers truth that trans kids grow up to be happy, successful members of society with the power to make our dreams come true. This money would serve as a beacon of hope that BIPOC, Asian, Latino disabled and trans youth are ever so deserving--in stark contrast to the tale the mainstream is currently telling of our trans community.