Tell us why you became a teacher

As the oldest of four and the daughter of an elementary school teacher, I always found that I was good with children and enjoyed my time caring for my siblings and supporting my Mom’s first and second graders. As a dancer since a young age, I taught dance to children starting when I was sixteen years old. I always felt a strong sense of building relationships and modeling and through my love of dance I discovered that I was in fact good at teaching. Therefore I danced my way through college!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was the year 2000-2001. I was in my eighth year as a credentialed teacher and my husband and I had been trying to start a family for years. Sadly, I was unable to have children and as a couple we struggled with this news. That same year I had sweet Vanessa in my class. She was the middle child of three sisters and they were in two separate foster homes. The girls were in need of a forever home. We became the girls parents. Teaching made me a parent!

What would you do with the $25,000?

My husband and I are both educators and work hard to care for our family. If I am fortunate enough to earn $25,000 as America’s Favorite Teacher I would put this money towards forever housing for my two youngest daughters. They both have intellectual disabilities and suffer from mental health issues. My biggest fear is them not having a place to live when my husband and I are no longer here to support them. The trauma of their early years continues to be challenging. We want them to be safe!