I teach because I am the product of teachers who saw potential in me before I saw it in myself. They didn’t just hand me an instrument, teach me a song or a math problem; they handed me a purpose. My greatest desire is to pay that debt forward—to be the same light for my students that my mentors were for me. I want to ignite a drive in these children that goes beyond the classroom, helping them become confident, well-rounded individuals who believe they can conquer anything.

My most memorable teaching experience was when several students used me as the subject of their Black History projects, comparing me to great historical figures of the past. I was brought to tears to know that so many students looked up to me in this way!

I would invest in my classroom with some of the money. There are so many instruments and experiences I would like the students to have access to, but since funds are limited I am unable to do so.