Tell us why you became a teacher

I became an art teacher because I believe in the transformative power of creativity. Art has always been my way of making sense of the world—of finding beauty, expressing emotion, and connecting with others in ways words and numbers often can’t. It teaches patience, resilience, and the freedom that comes with embracing imperfection. It gave me a sense of identity and purpose, and I wanted to share that magical gift with others. I teach these ideals every day and truly enjoy every minute of it.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was helping a young lady excel in an academic art competition. She was talented but lacked confidence in her abilities. Together, we honed her skills, explored techniques, and worked on her presentation. Watching her commitment grow as she refined her work was inspiring. On competition day, she not only performed exceptionally well but also won an award. Seeing her pride and newfound confidence reminded me why teaching is so rewarding.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I could create a transformative learning environment that fosters creativity, engagement, and collaboration. First, I would invest in updated technology, such as interactive tablets to enhance digital literacy and expand access to innovative educational tools. This would allow students to explore dynamic resources and participate in interactive lessons tailored to their individual needs! Then, I would buy the hands-on art supplies needed to start a school printing press!