Tell us why you became a teacher

I had ADHD and Dyslexia before they knew what they were. My mom kept my early report cards, which confirmed that I was not the best student. I struggled mightily to pass my classes. Fortunately, I had a mom who ensured I got my work done. It is for that reason I became a teacher - to help other kids like me. Kind but firmness can go a long way toward reaching a struggling child.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

With permission, I taught a Pre-Algebra class of students with behavioral and learning issues. What the students didn’t know was I was actually teaching them Algebra 1, in the Algebra 1 curriculum. They were not told until the end of the semester. Every student passed and got Algebra1 credit. The students with IEPs increased their math levels by at least 2 grades. Furthermore, they all passed Algebra 2 later, with the department head raving about how well they did.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’m currently teaching an SAT/ACT PREP class. There is no official curriculum so I’m constantly looking for anything to use with the class. I’ve found several programs from all over that would be wonderful, but we don’t have the funds, therefore I’d use a portion to buy materials to help teach my students. What’s left I’d like to see go to our STEM programs.