Tell us why you became a teacher

I have always loved helping others, whether it be my relatives, friends, or others. I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a teacher as I would play school with friends and family. I would always have them listen to my lesson that I specially curated for them, and then I would have them take an assessment to show their growth.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

In my first year, I was assigned a student who had a long list of behavior issues and they had worked their way through many different English teachers before she was assigned to me. Once in my room, she told me “you might as well not even try to get me to read. I haven’t read a book since elementary school, I’m not starting now.” After developing a strong relationship with this student, I was able to find a book she enjoyed and she became a strong reader! She has trouble putting books down now

What would you do with the $25,000?

Honestly, a big portion of my paycheck already goes towards my classroom library. I love getting students to actually enjoy reading again, so the first thing I would do would be to buy all of the books on my classroom wishlist. I would probably use the rest to help aid my father in his fight against cancer.