Tell us why you became a teacher

Even though my mother was an educator, I had never envisioned myself in the classroom. In college, I planned on being a counselor and later found myself in disability advocacy. I had always worked with kids (in camp counseling, tutoring, afterschool care, daycare) and later, started teaching yoga. In 2019, I lost my job due to a building fire and reevaluated my career. Teaching naturally fell into place, and now with a passion to keep public education alive and thriving, I haven't looked back!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my favorite teachers in high school had a room covered with student pictures and it always felt so inviting. I knew I wanted the same for my room and students when I started teaching. After my 1st year once I had pictures to hang, it has been a non-stop stream of students flocking to the wall, year after year. They get to watch themselves grow, see their friends and siblings, and I get to witness a sense of community in my room that brightens each and every day :)

What would you do with the $25,000?

Build our dream backyard! Clear out the overflow of invasive species for a wildflower meadow: native trees, fruit trees, garden beds, wildlife houses, a rainwater garden... whatever we can fit! My school also has over 3000 students with no sort of environmental club, so I would love to use funds to kickstart a community garden or recycling program. And of course, a huge party for my classes!