Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I was intrigued as a student. I always tried to find a new or conventional way to complete my assignments. My becoming a teacher was also influenced by my mother and my teachers. They were amazing at their jobs and I knew early in life that I wanted to be an advocate for students and help cultivate them into lifelong learners.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Calling the shyest student in the class to the board and having them explain the problem in math perfectly. I was afraid to go to the board and read in front of others when I was young, but with the encouragement of my teachers I broke out of the shell and became an exemplar student. My student had conquered the same fear I had. They made myself and their classmates beam with joy, and we made sure to cheer through the entire example. Making children lovers of learning, are marvelous memories.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I f I were to receive the $25,000 I would be sure to share the money with my school family and the students that get to be in my class. There are many programs that help students achieve their goals. There is equipment that we always need. I want to be able to let students see things outside of a textbook and know their mind can take them way farther than just my classroom.