Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to inspire students to be creative and better people overall. I want to make a difference that is lifelong and not just for a test. I want to indulge students in experiential learning where they can feel what they learn and transfer skills to life.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I taught Specially Designed Physical Education to a variety of children with special and some kids were unable to ambulate by walking and used a wheelchair. They were being taught to walk using a walker and I spent a lot of time coming up ideas to motivate them to walk more. I got a hamster and put him in a wheel to be our ‘gym buddy’. His name was MC Hamster and he was a huge hit and success. I had 2 students take their first ever independent steps trying to catch the hamster!! Success!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I teach at a college now and would love to purchase equipment for an adaptive sports class that I teach. I would love a tandem bike, racing bike, and other pieces equipment used in a variety of adaptive sports. I also would love to help funding for our students to attend our state and national conference in Physical Education and Adapted Physical Education