Tell us why you became a teacher

My sister was my biggest inspiration to be a teacher. And I was so involved with the arts at my school, I wanted to spread the same passion I have to a new wave of students. I strive to support the arts and keep them in schools, and show my students how their self confidence can exceed through their art making. I believe art can change a young person’s life, and help them navigate their high school lives by giving them a creative outlet. I want to give my students passion like my teachers did!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences happened during my second year. One of my students had no interest in the arts, was a class clown and athlete, and made it known that he was not interested. When I worked individually with him, and helped him put his own interests of sports into his art making, he found a new appreciation for the arts and by the end of the year really liked my class. He understood that art could be used for a stress reliever from athletics, and can be himself in art.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With the $25,000, I would put some towards the art department at my school to provide my students with the best opportunities they can have, as well as provide funding for field trips that would allow my classes to experience new things in the arts. I would also like to explore more of the world myself, exploring Europe and other places that I can learn more about the art that influences my classes. I would love to see the artworks in real life that I teach my students about in my own classes.