Tell us why you became a teacher

I volunteered to read to children at a library while in college and the way they lit up and looked at me hooked me! I decided to explore classes in elementary education and something in me just knew it was what I was meant to do.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had a student that transferred in mid year from out of state. He was shy and having trouble finding his way. I looked out for him and made sure he had a friend to sit with at lunch, play with, etc. Years later while in HS this young man wrote me a letter thanking me for making him feel like he belonged and that he would always remember my kindness. I think about him often and it makes me a smile that I made a difference in his life.

What would you do with the $25,000?

As an educator, and married to an educator, education is a priority in our house. My daughter is a Sophomore in college and my second daughter is getting ready to apply. I would put the $25,000 towards their college education.