Tell us why you became a teacher

The one thing that I NEVER wanted to be while growing up was a teacher. In college though, we had to do volunteer work and I did mine at an elementary school. Immediately upon working with students I realized how happy I was. I LOVED helping students achieve goals and I found it fun to plan activities. I adjusted my college classes to include some education ones and I was hooked. I realized that this was my calling. That helping children learn brought me such happiness and peace.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

During 2020-2021 I taught virtually the entire year. I had 25 kindergarten students. By EOY many restrictions were lifted and a lot of my families felt comfortable getting together. I was able to plan a ceremony for the students at the local country club. We had balloon arches, flowers, food and awards. It was the first moment that my students had ever seen each other in person and one I will never forget. The feeling of community we were able to build over the screen made me so very proud.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Our school playground is in dire need of an upgrade. Some of the equipment has been on the playground since I attended elementary school here, in the 1980's. I would use some of the money to donate to our school playground as, we have been trying to purchase new equipment for the playground for years.