Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to build a foundation where every child feels seen. My journey began at ASU, where I realized that early literacy is the ultimate tool for equity. There is nothing more rewarding than the "aha!" moment when a first grader masters a new phonics rule or finds their unique voice. I teach to empower the next generation, transforming my classroom into a dynamic space where innovative tools and high expectations ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

To celebrate our school's "A" label, I turned my classroom into a "Construction Zone" for my first graders. Wearing hard hats, they used "sight word blueprints" to build towers out of blocks. Every time they mastered a heart word, they added a "brick" to our class skyscraper. Seeing their faces light up as they realized their hard work built something tangible was incredible. It wasn't just a lesson; it was a blueprint for their confidence as readers and young thinkers.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I’ll transform my classroom into a dynamic learning hub. First, I’ll replace static desks with modular furniture. This agile environment allows students to swap traditional seating for collaborative layouts that suit their unique learning styles. Second, I’ll launch a "Safety Net Pantry" to provide high-quality nutrition and water. By ensuring no student is distracted by hunger, I can remove barriers to equity and focus. My goal is a space that feeds both the mind and the body