Tell us why you became a teacher

I fell into teaching at age 50. I was working with kids with behavior problems in an alternative school and the elementary teacher position opened up. All my co-workers said I should take the position. I went an alternative route and became certified within 6 months as a special education teacher me

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There are many, but as a special educator, sometimes it takes months of teaching a skill before they get it. The moment the eyes light up and a child realizes they can do something and they now have a brand new confidence to maybe participate in their general education class with their peers. Something they wouldn't have done before.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I want to start an art program at my school. There is no art curriculum in our elementary school at all. I want to be able to give some exposure to art. Techniques, artists, different styles, etc. I would need money for supplies. This is a Title 1 school and the families cannot afford any fees. Any extra funds would be towards things for our special education classroom. Manipulatives, sensory equipment and other teaching aids.