Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of my 5th-grade teacher. He always treated me like he cared about me. I didn't ever feel like I was a burden and he always pushed me to be my best. When I was older, I was lucky enough to be a janitor at my elementary school. It was great to see my teachers interact with one another when students weren't around. The camaraderie with the teachers was positive and supportive. I wanted to join a team that I knew would have my back like that! (I do now!)

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I think the most memorable teaching experience I have had would be this school year. I have been teaching 6th grade for the past 9 years, and this year I have the opportunity to share science with our entire grade. I have been pushed outside of my comfort zone, but hearing students make connections across the subjects of math, reading, and science, or notice a concept that I have taught previously, touches my heart. Hearing the joy that my subject can bring has made my job such a joy this year.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to take my family on a trip. We can't travel a lot due partly to the size of our family and partly due to the fact that I have a teacher's salary and my husband has a sheriff's salary! I would also love to invest in classroom equipment that we are lacking in! We go through so many school supplies each year and it's gotten to the point that I've had to buy a lot of them myself! I then would do boring stuff, like pay bills. :)