Tell us why you became a teacher

In high school, I took a childcare class and LOVED it. I got to be creative, work with kids, and felt like I belonged. The other students called me a teacher's pet, but I was a C student, so I knew I was where I needed to be.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My first year of teaching was really hard. I cried almost every day and couldn't believe how much energy it took to be a kindergarten teacher. I even questioned if I was meant to do this job. One especially tough week, I ended up crying in the principal's office, asking if the kids were learning anything. He reassured me I was and told me my most important job was to love the kids. After that, I knew I would nail this job because I loved the kids.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Honestly, I have no idea. I would let it sit for a hot minute and think about what I wanted to do. It's not every day you have $25,000. I am sure a trip to the toy aisle, where I get all my inspiration for teaching, would be at the top of the list.