Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I've always loved children. My baby sister, Rebecca was born when I was 10 and I grew up taking care of her! When I was in 2nd grade, I adored my teachers Miss Bucci and Mrs. Kiley! I even went on to student teach in Miss Bucci's classroom. I always knew that I wanted to teach and make children feel loved, safe, and of course, laugh!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was teaching during the year after covid. It was the year that almost broke me as a teacher. My own mental health was unstable after the trauma of teaching during covid and the expectation to help students get back to normal. After teaching 1st grade for 18 years, a position opened up in 3rd grade. This small change saved me and my love of teaching was restored. Kids are different and things aren't the same, but it gave me the chance to grow and change.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won the 25,000, I would pay off my debts and renovate my deck in my backyard. My deck is where I love to spend my summers reading and hanging out with my dog Marty McFly.