Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher after being a paraprofessional in a title math support position for several years. I had realized that I was not just good at the math I loved, but I relate well to the students, even some of the tough to reach students.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I have a student who was born with fetal alcohol syndrome. She struggles with school. It was explained to me that their brains struggle to make connections. Some days you may see a light flicker. Some days, however, it’s like she’s on fire! She had two whole weeks before she lost her “spark”, where I only wanted to call on her for fear of “losing” her! She was so excited! I live to see that excitement, that happiness, from students who struggle but never give up and continue to feed the fire!

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000 I would get rid of a bulk of my debt and be much closer putting much more money towards college/trade school funds for my three daughters.