Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I’ve always wanted to be just like my mom. A teacher herself, she instilled the value of learning in me from a young age. It is because of her that I never saw myself anywhere but a classroom…she turned every setting into an educational one! Every day I hope to be at least half the woman and teacher she is.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience is having a student tell me what they hope to be my student teacher one day. I currently work alongside my former high school physics teacher…the person who sparked my passion for the subject and led me to become a physics teacher myself. Being his colleague is a unique full circle experience for both of us. To think that my class could have that same effect on someone else is one of the greatest gifts this career could ever offer me.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000 I would take myself back to school to become a Doctor of Education. My goal is to grow as an educator through experience, refining my craft so I can provide my students the most meaningful learning experiences. One day, I’d like to become a leader in the field of education so I can teach teachers. The opportunities that follow an Ed.D. will allow me to give back to the career that has given me a sense of purpose.