I became a teacher to make history fun, engaging, and relatable. I want students to see history as more than facts; it’s a story that connects us to the past and shapes the future. I also built leadership programs and a Film and Broadcast program to teach modern skills and storytelling. My goal is to empower young people to think critically, use their voices, and take action. History is alive, and so are the students who will shape its next chapter.

Every October, I teach Dark History with a plethora of spooky topics. One year, I created a survival board game set in Jamestown, and Angel, a quiet student, became hooked. At first, he just watched, but soon he was strategizing and leading his group. By the end, he was one of the biggest history buffs in class. Each year, students bond over the game, and help to make the mechanics of the game more intense for the years to come. We love Dark History!

With $25,000, I’d invest in myself as a teacher and creator. I’d purchase advanced equipment for my Film & Broadcast students to help them develop modern skills and create high-quality content. I'd also manufacture a large class set of my board game Surviving Jamestown to share with students and expand its reach. This investment would enhance both my classroom and my board game venture, empowering my students and helping bring my passion projects to life.