Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I knew I was going to be a teacher since I was a little kid. I grew up tutoring my friends and loved seeing people understand tough concepts. In high school, my math teacher inspired me to pursue math, showing me that everyone can succeed in it regardless of background. In college, I discovered my passion for working with diverse students, helping them see math as more than memorizing equations. Math is a powerful tool to explore the world and solve complex problems.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Seeing my first group of students, whom I taught for three years, graduate was unforgettable. I witnessed their growth academically and personally, many becoming the first in their families to graduate. Their families’ pride and gratitude for recognizing their potential made the moment even more special. Today, many have graduated college and are inspiring the next generation, changing the narrative for those who look like them and being an example for the kids in their community.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Most of my students are multilingual learners from diverse backgrounds. Winning $25,000 would allow me to travel to their home communities, immerse myself in their cultures, and better understand their languages. As a math teacher, I strive to make math relevant by connecting it to real-world issues. My goal would be to research challenges in my students’ communities and relate them to similar issues in Atlanta, empowering them to see math as a tool for change.