Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of the influential teachers I had growing up. Without my teachers, I wouldn't be the person I am today. Helping shape and mold a person into themselves is something that I truly enjoy. Being a positive influence to my students is very important to me and guiding them to have fun on their life journey is something I strive to achieve with each set of students. It is rewarding to know someday my students will look back and hopefully appreciate me as I do my educators.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I worked at a school that didn't have the funds one year for a field trip and it was upsetting to our students that we were unable to take on a field trip like we had every prior to their class. So I partnered with the Kindergarten teacher at the time and we coordinated with the community to put on a field trip on our school lawn. We got donations of pumpkins and set up games with prizes and the kids were overjoyed. Seeing their appreciation for our hard work made it all worth it.

What would you do with the $25,000?

$25,000 dollars is a lot of money and there's so much I could do with it. I would definitely give back to my students by updating some of our classroom resources; including headphones, manipulatives, more tangible learning resources, etc. I would also donate to our field trips we have each year. I would be able to provide my students with more financial means and be able to pay off debts I have because when it comes to my students I'll get what they need.