Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

Twenty-five and a half years ago, I walked into my first teaching potion and never looked back. I was unsure at first because the gravity and weight of becoming a teacher is immense. Yet with time, I realized that teaching isn't a job. It's a calling. I am following the call because of all the teachers before me who said I could do great things. I want to be a positive influence on the next generations. Simply put, I want to make a difference.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

While being observed by the new principal of my school, I was a co-teacher at the time in an English class. The general education teacher was being evaluated. After several minutes, the principal walked over to a group of students working on thier research project and asked them, "Which one of these ladies is your teacher?" The students looked at him and in unpracticed unison declared, "They both are!" To be known as the other teacher in the room and not just the helper is an accomplishment.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I think I would pay off my debt. I want to be able to help my daughter through college, and I would love to go back for my masters. I want to keep teaching for as long as I can, so to not have the financial stress of debt would be amazing!