Tell us why you became a teacher

Investing in a better future is something that has been important to me for as long as I can remember. Being a teacher is the best way I can do this. I want instill a curiosity and admiration for the things not known or understood, rather than a fear. I’m also passionate about meeting students where they are. I care about each of my students individually and I’m invested in each of their journeys. Differentiation and inclusivity are pillars of my classroom and my philosophy as an educator.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable experiences as an educator was helping a student get into a prestigious high school. This student had been through many schools before ending up in mine. He struggled deeply with reading/writing. His previous experiences had left him feeling defeated and traumatized. Art was his outlet. Over the course of three months, we met after school to work on his application. He was admitted to the Visual Arts program and now attends one of the Top 100 high schools in the country.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 to put a down payment down on a home. At my current salary, I am unable to save up and work towards purchasing a home. I would love to be able to invest in my future, the same way I invest in my students’.