Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I remember being a student who gave her best but was overlooked in contests due to poverty. The few teachers who believed in me changed my life. Now, I want to be that teacher—one who sees every child’s potential, lifts them up, and ensures no student ever feels invisible or limited by their circumstances.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences is seeing my students transform from the “worst” to the best. I often get the most challenging kids because they know I can manage them well. Many remember me as strict, but with a kind heart. Hearing them say, “If you weren’t strict back then, I wouldn’t be who I am today,” reminds me that discipline combined with care truly shapes lives.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I win, my focus is to help my family, especially to build a house for my parents who sacrificed so much to make me who I am today. I want to give back to those who have always supported and believed in me.