Tell us why you became a teacher

I was a Kindergarten student aide my Senior Year in High School. I loved being a part of a child's learning. Watching a child light up when they have achieved a goal, is truly a blessing in itself. I am in a Title One school so we have more than a fair share of low income households. I get to give every child not only education every day but a smile. Teaching is important but letting a child know they are loved? I am ALWAYS there for them, and sometimes it is just a smile

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

All are memorable! Most memorable is probably 2020. This was my retirement year and my youngest Senior year. Lots of emotions. Everything changed in March!! I continued to teach by Zoom the remainder of the school. Being able to see their sweet faces on Zoom assured me everything was going to be okay. They were still learning and lighting up my world. Children are our future and the resilience they show even in the darkest time is astounding. They still excel in spite of many odds!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would definitely pay off some debt!! I would take a trip because I love to travel!! The 1st of every month I try to come up with some way to give back because I have been so blessed. Usually its take dinner to someone, pay for someone's gas at a gas station, christmas for a family at our school, etc. Hopefully, I could pick a family at our school for a night out(movies, dinner, etc.). Being at a Title One school, it is amazing at the children who have never gone to a movie theatre.