Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I had a teacher who made me feel so valued, seen, and supported when I was going through the school system, that I wanted a chance to provide that for others. The ability to make the slightest impact for the generations to come gives me a sense of purpose that no other profession could.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was working with a middle school student who had no interest or want to learn math. After a year of persistence he passed. Six years later he came back to visit me during his senior year to tell me he has had straight A’s in math since having me as a teacher and that he is committed to a D2 college for basketball because of the belief I had in him and the confidence I helped him develop in himself.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000 I would start a a student scholarship program, help provide a classroom/lounge makeover, pay off my remaining student debt, take my family on a well deserved trip, and help in financially securing my family’s future with whatever is left.