Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I grew up always wanting to help others in need. Students are in need of being challenged, educated and cared for and I’m able to do this everyday! I also knew I wanted to be a teacher because my kindergarten teacher (who was also my Language Arts teacher in 6th, 7th and 8th grade at parochial school) instilled in me the value of learning and continuing to grow with each new day. Mrs. Black, was my guiding light even at age 5!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

While teaching Third Grade we read Flat Stanley and sent out personalized Stanleys and letters to family and friends. Watching those letters arrive back at school, being read by the students to their classmates, always put a smile on my face. The kids loved all of Stanley’s adventures! Stanley even visited the Yankees at The Stadium! I also loved incorporating Opening Day of Baseball into our curriculum! All the experiences of the ballpark brought to kids who may not have a chance to get to one!

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were to be chosen, I would split this prize in different areas of our school. Since I love and cherish the hobby of reading, I would work with our Library Media Specialist to order a library of Ms. Henzel’s favorite kids’ books from childhood to present day. The other portion of money would be given to our Kindness Closet, which is a program set up for the less fortunate in our school to come and choose household items they are in need of. This prize would certainly stock the shelves!