Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I became a single mother, and my hours as a journalist were not conducive to child rearing. Teaching would provide stability and allow me to be with my children during school breaks. I stayed with teaching because I could see the impact I was having on inner city students. It is my passion still today.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Two students -one college bound and one experiencing a lot of turmoil at home - found a place to belong and thrive in my yearbook classroom. The college student disappointed her family after finishing her pre med degree because she went to work for google. She worked as a graphic designer through college because she found it relaxing. Last time we talked at her wedding, she headed a division of You Tube. The other student still lives nearby, in fact, I am taking photos at her wedding next month.

What would you do with the $25,000?

First, I would repair three cameras that I have not been able to repair because of funds. I would replace the 200 mm lens for the program. I would use part of it to start the renewal process for my National Board for Professional Teaching Standards license, and after that, I might start a scholarship at my school or fix my wreck of a garden at my house or both.