Tell us why you became a teacher

I decided to become a teacher the summer before my senior year of high school. I went to an elite journalism camp because I thought I wanted to be a reporter. Then I came home and taught Vacation Bible Camp to a group of pre-schoolers. I fell in love with teaching! I knew it was my calling. It wasn't fancy, but I I loved every part of planning for and working with students. My love only grew as I studied in college, even though I began to see all the challenges I knew teaching was for me.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There have been so many moments! This year I have students who push into room from special ed for morning meetings, science, and social studies. Riley is shy and doesn't talk in front of the group, but I hear her talking in small groups. I worked on strategies to get her more involved. She began saying "I pass" when it was her turn to share. Then one day she said, "I love to play with my cats!" The whole class was so excited to hear her voice and a whole sentence! It encouraged her to open up!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the money as a down payment on a condo near where I teach. Between all my student loans for my undergrad and graduate degrees in education, cost of living, and spoiling my students, I've never been able to save enough to purchase a home. I love living in the same community as my students, because I can go see them in their extra curricular activities. I would love to buy a place of my own and the money would be a HUGE help! I would love to become a homeowner!