Tell us why you became a teacher

I interviewed for a security position. They later called me and said they had something else in mind for me. They said they would like me to teach their Health Science class. I exclaimed, “What did I say that made you think I had a teaching certificate?” They then said I could teach under my paramedic license. 8 years later I have 2 teachers and 4 certification classes. I taught upcoming EMTs, paramedics, and new police officers how to do their jobs. That was one on one.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable moments are when my students contact me to tell me their college classes are much easier because of my class, or when they contact me to tell me they are working as doctors and nurses! My very first medical assistant class was during Covid. The kids didn’t have to test but a couple did. They FaceTimed me when they were doing orientation as nurses at our local level 1 trauma center. I am a proud bonus mom!

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won the money I would probably help my son pay his college tuition and possibly take the 2 classes I need to continue teaching after 10 years. I need two classes to be certified to teach without a yearly ACA. Even after 8 years, I’m not ready to give up my 2nd career or my bonus kids just yet!