I believe that everything happens for a reason! I became a teacher 9 years ago when a small charter school in our area needed a science teacher. I quickly learned that teaching is so much more than just instruction. A very important and rewarding part of the job is helping kids become better people. I get to know my students on a personal level and make connections that stay with them for life.

During graduation one year, as our Principal handed one of my favorite students his diploma, he announced that he planned to attend our local university and major in Earth Science. It caught me completely by surprise because he had been planning to study History. When I asked him why he changed majors, he told me that my Earth Science class was his favorite. He graduated recently and is now doing amazing work. Knowing that I made such a difference in his life has been my most rewarding moment.

Since our school is very small (less than 600 students K-12) I would want to invest the money in ways that would have the biggest impact for our students. We could certainly use more and better lab equipment. Our school keeps expanding every year and enrollment keeps growing, so we are in need of many things. I think a greenhouse using hydroponics would be an amazing addition. Students could grow food for our community while learning environmentally greener agriculture.