Tell us why you became a teacher

I am the teacher I wanted...a human who listens to students even when they don't say a thing. I wanted a teacher who could have fun, make me laugh, make me feel safe and create a space I was brave enough to take chances in.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I took a student in after her mother was suddenly hospitalized. Despite the judgement of others, the risk I took created a lifeline for this student, and a lifelong friendship for the both of us. This particular lesson didn't occur in my classroom, but it's been the one that has made the biggest difference in both our lives.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would definitely upgrade my current popcorn machine and buy an automatic cotton candy machine, definitely a good hood vent and a full size chemical cabinet for flammables, a full size cabinet for corrosives, a full size chemical cabinet for all other shelf stable chemicals and a dedicated fridge for consumables.