Teaching is my calling. Growing up poor in the rural South, education unlocked my future. Teachers shaped me—Mses. Lump and Mercak nurtured my curiosity & led me to "find my voice," while Messrs. Kirk & Moore connected science to nature & opportunity. I became a teacher to give students that same empowerment. More than facts, science helps us find our place in the world. Through advocacy, policy, & activism, I fight to preserve & multiply my impact on students through other teachers as well.

My FIU college chemistry professor, Ms. Martinez, would drag us to the front of class to use Salsa dance to illustrate chemical principles. As a shy "gringo" in Miami, it pushed me out of my comfort zone. Years later, during my students’ skit on reaction types in an activity derived from that, she surprised visited my class just as they used salsa to explain replacement reactions. We burst into laughter—her impact came full circle, proving science and learning are dynamic, fun, & unforgettable.

For years, I’ve sacrificed financially to teach in one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., unable to afford my own home in Miami. This award would help me plant permanent roots in my community, ensuring my long-term impact on students. I’d also invest in my outdoor education program—funding a weekend camping trip & compensating the dedicated volunteers who make it possible. This would expand students’ experiences beyond textbooks, fostering real-world learning & lasting memories.