Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I grew up in a low-income family where life was hard financially. However, I had the greatest mom and grandfather who prioritized school, being kind, and doing your very best at whatever you choose to do in life. My mom loved teaching me and my brothers new things throughout our childhood. Library trips were a big part of our weekly routine. My grandfather also instilled in me the ideas that children are precious and life is not meant to be wasted. So, I combined both in my career choice.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Oh, wow…I have many! Those that stand out to me are when I can encourage a child to an “Aha!” moment. I love to spark their curiosity in a new topic, foster their early enthusiasm for reading, and revel in bridging the gaps they have in their understanding.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I have a list! Mostly, I’d like to expand the interactive/hands-on components of our instruction in our building of 3rd and 4th grade. I’d love to engage students in more science experiments, reading centers, math games, and field trips both in and out of the building. School should be fun! We have lost funding for extra programs like assemblies, parent/student/community nights, book fairs, and other events that make it fun for kids to be immersed in the school culture.