Tell us why you became a teacher

Teaching was not my first choice of careers. After working for over a decade in manufacturing I decided to become a teacher. I didn't enjoy school growing up and I wanted to change that. I wanted to become that teacher that cares about the forgotten kids or the ones who are rough around the edges. Every kid deserves to have someone in their corner.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

As an Emotional Support teacher I get the opportunity to work with middle schoolers for 3 years instead of 1. Because of this I get to see these kids grow and truly make progress with their behaviors. Seeing students who I had 4 years ago light up when they see me again or go out of their way to stop me in public to say hello are my greatest memories.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would take a vacation with my whole family and put some work into our house we recently purchased.