Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher over 10 years ago so I could instill confidence in our youth. It is so rewarding to experience their lightbulb moments, their growth, and how they see the world as a child. I get to make each child feel loved and I get that love back. What other profession do you get the best hugs every day, children that call you their “school mom”, and the challenge to ensure the little minds that are sitting in front of you are ready to conquer the world?

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching moment was actually just a year ago. You strive every year to connect with your students, on a personal level and academic level. I teach sixth graders and I have taught this age group for the last six years. A group of four girls in my class and some from another homeroom brought be a piece of paper to sign. I read it and it was “adoption” papers to be their school mom. They described the reasons and it just made me cry. It is framed on my desk to this day.

What would you do with the $25,000?

My two small children and I were hit almost head on by a drunk driver on the highway. This happened not even two weeks ago. Insurance gave us enough to pay off my totaled car with little left over for a new car. This money would be used to buy our family another car.