Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

Not everyone can do what we do, and while I love any learning space, school is also where most of us meet our lifelong friends. I get to help build a space where kids know they can find safe adults who respect them and are there to help them grow into good people who are empathetic, informed leaders.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Middle school math intervention teacher new to the school, nervously being observed by the principal. At some point during the lesson, a tougher student asked for clarification for his group. After we helped get his group on the path, he made a totally relevant math joke that had his peers, me, and the principal laughing out loud. I don’t remember the joke now, but it was so quick, smart, and deeply funny, we shared the most happy moment of learning- all kids deserve that joy at school.

What would you do with the $25,000?

The Mom in me wants to take my kids on vacation with us. The Teacher in me wants to invest in bringing a Boys and Girls Club to our community. The Homeowner in me knows we should finish the bathroom renovation. The Car Owner in me needs a new windshield, tires, and brakes. The 50 year old in me says to invest it. The Responsible Consumer in me says pay off my debt and a chunk of my student loans. The Traveler in me wants to give scholarships to the kids who want to travel with their teachers.