Tell us why you became a teacher

As a child, my teachers played an instrumental role in my life. I felt the need to be that way for others. In a sense, a way to repay my debt to the amount of support and dedication my teachers showed me. My intention is to create a safe, welcoming, open classroom. My students are my “kids”. If I can help one, I’ve succeeded.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had a student come to me years after teaching them and they expressed how I was the only person who supported and accepted them for who they were. I had no idea the impact I had made when they were my student.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I lost my mom when I was 13. I would like to set aside some of the money as a scholarship of sort to help students who lose their parents suddenly. I would also like to provide supplies for students who often come to school without. I would like to improve my classroom with better assisted technology to enrich my students learning.