Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I learned at 19 that patience and support is what anyone- Children or adults alike need to be successful. I realized that if I can make a difference in just one students life then it is worth it.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

When I was 19 and home from college ( studying to be a marine biologist) I worked at a day program for special needs adults. I taught a 65 year old man who was labeled as non-verbal how to sing the ABCS. No one had taken the time to sit and work with him because he had received the label so young in life. I realized in that moment that if I was able to teach a 65 year old man to talk, the impact I could have on students lives would be amazing.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would pay off some student loans. I switched to a special education school that is for profit to best help those students who are struggling with mental health issues. I then quickly learned there is no loan forgiveness for a for profit school even if it is solely to help special education students.