Tell us why you became a teacher

My entry into the teaching profession was not planned. I had left my corporate job, and stayed at home a little over a year with my young children. When they started school, I decided to sub at the school. My first day of subbing was incredible. I fell in love with teaching right away. Since I was not licensed to teach, I found an alternate licensure path to enter the profession. I haven't stopped since.....and love it!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Thinking back to one of the most memorable and magical experiences was watching one of my fourth grade classes get excited about magnetic levitation (maglev) trains. We discovered that one was being used in China. They wanted to know more so we emailed the German engineering firm (who sent us a book and some maglev items) and then went on to build a maglev train in our classroom. They were so excited to present their project at a Family Night!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use part to add additional supplies and equipment for my classroom and I would use part to create an outdoor learning space and some classroom gardens for our students. My room has some flexible seating. I would love to add an additional table and stools. I would also add another prep/work table and some organizers the classroom. In addition to focusing on the needs of my classroom and my students, I would spend some to complete a few home projects and take my family out to dinner.