Initially I became a teacher as a second career. It allowed for a better work life balance. What kept me around as an educator was: the kids I met along the way, the aha moments, inspiring a love of science in my students, fostering curiosity, and getting to continue science experiments into adulthood!

There have been several, watching my kids in complete awe when we went to a cadaver and ortho surgery lab; was one of the coolest memories! Getting to see something through their eyes was refreshing and inspiring!

Commit half of it to scholarship or sponsor an immersive field study/trip. There isn't a lot of opportunity for high school sciences to go on a true “field study” and that would be pretty exciting. That kind of real world exposure would be significant for a kiddo in south east Indiana! Personally, I would use a portion to support my own family and professional growth. Its no secret that educators give endlessly, and having financial breathing room would go a long way into my development.