Tell us why you became a teacher

I love working with kids and I love art. I enjoy mentoring youth and helping them through their everyday experiences and challenges. I feel fulfilled by guiding youth in ways to express themselves and we often use art as a tool of expression. Many of the youth we work with are at-risk and often are struggling with circumstances we cannot even imagine as adults, so providing them tools to be able to express themselves is very important for the youth.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

The first time I was able to connect with one of our youths who would not talk to anyone. They would come in, find a quiet place to sit down, curl up, and hide. I connected with this youth by sitting down next to them. I sat next to them until this youth expressed to me that they "didn't feel like they belonged anywhere". I helped this youth with their emotions; they would check in with me every day and tell me how they were feeling. They told me I helped them feel like they belong somewhere.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would donate some funds back to our Boys & Girls Club, I would donate some funds back to local non-profit organizations, and I would donate some funds to people I know who are in need.