Tell us why you became a teacher

A career change led me to being a teaching assistant in classroom and then a teacher. I doubted my journey but Liam, a student of mine changed that. He was a student who was transitioning into our home program. He did not adjust well and ended up pulling my hair at full strength. I say this because I had my observation not too long after that and was worried about the outcome. Liam, a nonverbal student, fully participated to the best of his ability. It was the connection we made.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There are many but one of my most memorable moment was teaching in my self contained classroom where I had a wide spectrum of learning disabilities. Teaching 8th grade pre algebra took much technique but seeing how the usage of various modalities really reached my kids put a smile on my face. You see the difference with students when the most difficult subject becomes a subject they are willing to try instead of giving up when it’s challenging.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With this I would love to start a scholarship fundraiser for students who struggle to fit the norms of society and strive for better even through the silence. I would also love to utilize this to purchase some supplies I do believe to be beneficial in my classrooms. Lastly, there are some curricula and professional developments I would love to be a part of to continue to perfect and grow my craft. One hope I would also have is to be able to put together anonymous self care baskets for students.