Tell us why you became a teacher

I knew from an early age that I wanted to work as an educator. I became enthusiastic about teaching and the importance of school was instilled by my maternal grandmother who taught 3rd grade for over 30 years in the public school system before retiring. I became a teacher so that I could help in finding ways to encourage students love for learning as an important investment in the future. I enjoy attending conferences, workshops and seminars as a strong desire to build knowledge to share.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I enjoy seeing my middle school students "get it" in each subject. I work at an alternative school that involves me creating a classroom which assists young boys both behaviorally and academically in becoming a better person through a variety of meaningful strategies that builds self-confidence, enhances social skills and promotes a willingness to learn, all in a smaller setting. Many times, students enter with complexities but by the end of the year, improvements surface and we all win!

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I'd invest in my church tutoring program, school and classroom, support my family as well as pay off some debt.