Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I enjoy making kids believe they are able to do and be anything. I genuinely enjoy children's company, their questions, their miatakes, and supporting them to acquire skills. I don't want any child to go 40 years not knowing they are born with value and we go on in life adding to it. Secondly, I want children to know they are loved because they exist and lastly, there is nothing we can't learn together.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My daughter was struggling to understand math. I tried several ways to explain the concept but ahe wasn't getting it. She yelled out in frustration, " if I was smart enough inqould get it ". I looked at her and said you are smart because you are Someone who Makes several Attempts to Reach your Targets. I incorporate that into every class I have whether they are preschoolers or in high school. The message is clear; keep trying, keeping showing up, and keep moving towards your goals.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would take some of the funds and invest into my educational small business. Dream Through STEAM RI started witha photo reenactment exhibition, in which i started dressing as African American contributors to American society. I was using this as a way to teach my children history with the hopes of them dreaming they too could have an impact. Now I collaborate with teachers to add spark to their lessons and I partner with organizations to bring STEAM, storytelling, and history to the communit