Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe deeply in the promise of the future. Every day in the classroom reminds me that young people carry incredible potential, and being part of their growth is both a privilege and a joy. Teaching allows me to pour hope, knowledge, and encouragement into the next generation, and there’s nothing more fulfilling than helping students discover what they’re capable of. I love guiding, supporting, and celebrating them as they learn.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of the most memorable experiences in my teaching journey happened years after a student had left my classroom. A senior reached out to me—his old 5th grade teacher—to tell me he was graduating and wanted to thank me for believing in him when he was still figuring out who he wanted to become. Hearing his voice, now confident and full of purpose, filled me with a joy that’s hard to describe. It reminded me that the seeds we plant as teachers often grow quietly, out of sight, until they bloom.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were awarded $25,000, I would use it to continue my education and pursue a doctorate in teaching—an opportunity that would allow me to deepen my expertise and expand the impact I have on students. Advancing my studies isn’t just a personal goal; it’s a commitment to becoming the strongest educator I can be. With this support, I could focus on research, leadership, and innovative practices that would ultimately enrich my classroom and my community.