Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher after working in with youth and realizing that if I was in the classroom I could make one of the biggest impacts with students today. I could help them grow and learn in fun and creative ways, give them a space to be themselves and learn about others- all while discovering the amazing world of social studies.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable experiences are with the students who “fall through the cracks”. The ones that feel left out or forgotten. Those students tend to gravitate towards my classroom and I see what a difference an invested and creative adult in their life can make. Watching students become young adults and helping them to grow into their best selves as easily been the most rewarding and memorable part of my teaching career.

What would you do with the $25,000?

In a perfect world- I would help sponsor an international trip with students. Some of my students may never have the opportunity to travel- and I wholeheartedly believe there is no better life experience than traveling. An educational international adventure would be unmatched! If this were possible, I would use some of the funds to sponsor student travel, and use the remaining funds to sponsor further education for myself.