Tell us why you became a teacher

There has never been any other career for me since a young age. My mother was an incredible elementary teacher. I saw her in action so many times, I heard her speak of her students with so much love, and knew I too would like to spend my life in this profession. I love to engage, I love to lead, I love to connect, therefore I love to teach!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had been teaching in a low income, Title 1 school in central Arkansas about a decade ago. It was a challenging but lovable bunch of students. Upon returning the following year, my principal informed me that I would be moving up a grade but could keep my entire class. We had a fantastic year, having already made the crucial connections the year prior. I saw so much growth emotionally and academically, I could not have been more proud. I will never forget those kids!

What would you do with the $25,000?

To be completely honest, after doing something nice for my biggest supporters (my parents) and treating my incredible students, I would probably put it in savings. I chose a career that would never make me rich financially. I live paycheck to paycheck. But I never dread going to work in the morning. I love my job. My school, my students, and my coworkers bring me so much joy. I can’t imagine doing anything else. It would just be lovely to have a bit of a safety net in case of emergencies.