My reason for teaching extends beyond delivering lessons. It's about making a meaningful difference in the lives of my students. I want to create an environment where each student feels safe to express themselves, take risks, and explore their interests. I was fortunate enough to have amazing teachers my whole educational career; Mrs. Webber in Kinder, Mr. Robinson in 2nd grade, Mrs. Hampton who made me love reading, Ms. Fielden for all my art classes, and my grandma Lillian who was a teacher!

My most memorable experience came from a guardian of one of my students. They were in my first class ever and unfortunately had to move a few years later. However they moved back and I got to see the guardian on our Grandparents/Special Adult day. They came to me and said, "I'm so glad you're still here. He reads to us a book every night and I still attribute those moments to you teaching him how not just to read but to love to read."

If I won I would use the money to pay off my loans for my Masters in Special Education I'm currently pursuing. I'd also use it to invest in some classroom tools, like alternative seating, some sensory tools, and supplies. If there was any left over I'd use it to maybe update my teacher wardrobe a bit or take a weekend trip with my husband to a new city in our new state, we just moved for his schooling!