Tell us why you became a teacher

I fell in love with school librarianship after finding home in my high school library. I gained a lifelong friend and mentor in my high school librarian, who afforded me the opportunity to serve as a student volunteer leader on the library crew. I was able to see the positive impact my librarian had on students daily; it's no wonder that when I graduated, I carried with me the dream of becoming a school librarian that would similarly impact students in need, just as my librarian did in my case.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

During my first year of teaching, I was lucky enough to work weekly with our Exceptional Learners (students with advanced special needs). We spent each class period reading and completing library tasks together. It was such a privilege to see each student open up to me during that first semester. Now, 4 years later, I've had two of them return to me as senior student assistants! I'm so happy to be experiencing such a full circle moment with such an amazing group of students.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Since I've already achieved my professional dream, I would put a significant portion towards savings for my personal dream: owning a home! I would love to utilize the other portion to purchase more comfortable furniture for the library. The library is a welcoming space and the heart of our school, so having some cozy furniture to match would only amplify that!