Tell us why you became a teacher

Being an advocate and helping children in need has always been my passion. After completing my Bachelor's degree, becoming a preschool teacher, long term substitute, and gymnastics coach, I knew what God placed me on this Earth to do: Teach. Each day I get to help my students grow in all aspects, watch their eyes light up with joy, and be the caregiver that I once had growing up. School was my safe place during my rocky childhood and I strive to be the shoulder that I use to lean on.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of the most memorable experiences was when I went to Amber Brooke Farms with my first class! I work at a Title 1 school, where most of our student population comes from low-income backgrounds. As we walked in the strawberry field one of my students said, "Ms. Bushman, I've never had a strawberry before. This is the best day of my life." I would be lying if I said that I didn't tear up a little bit. I will always hold that statement to my heart. Teaching is so much more than grades and data.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000 the first thought I have comes to my classroom. I would love to build onto my classroom library and invest in academic STEM bins. I would also love to purchase flexible seating and proper science experiment tools. I believe making the most out of everyday and would also purchase varying packages to have themed days in my classroom. For personal use, I would use some of the funds to pay off the rest of my car and invest the rest to purchase my very first home.