Tell us why you became a teacher

Social Studies is not usually a subject that young people really get into, so I loved the idea that I could start a young person on a path that will help determine what they will become later in life. The great thing about Social Studies is that it encompasses so many different fields and there is not only one way to look at topics and concepts. It gives students the opportunity to look at their world differently.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I was able to teach at my old high school with my former 8th and 9th Grade Social Studies teachers, who inspired me to get into teaching and social studies. They gifted me a Civics textbook, one I used when I was in high school, and a few years later I was able to gift the book to another student who started off as a behavioral challenge, but would later demonstrate a real love for Social Studies and Civics.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I recently got married in 2024, and we have not been able to take a honeymoon or put a downpayment on a house. I currently work my Regular School hours, Before-School, After-School, Student Council, and as well as other events. The problem is that the bills and expenses continue to add up. We really want to take the honeymoon first because we know that with a house come more expenses, pushing the honeymoon further back.