Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I have a passion for helping children learn and grow. I wanted to be someone who encourages, supports, and believes in every child that walks into my classroom. Seeing students understand something new and use the skills I’ve taught them brings me so much joy. Being able to make a positive impact in their lives and help shape their future is the reason I love what I do.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable moments as a teacher was watching a student finally understand something they had been struggling with. After practicing and encouraging them day after day, I saw their face light up when it finally clicked. The excitement and pride they felt in that moment reminded me why I became a teacher. Seeing a child gain confidence in themselves and use what I taught them is a feeling I will never forget. It’s those small but powerful moments that make teaching so rewarding.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would invest it into creating even more opportunities for my students to learn and grow. I would use part of the money to provide classroom resources, hands-on learning materials, and educational experiences that inspire curiosity and creativity. I would also support activities that bring families into the classroom so we can continue building a strong community around our children. Most importantly, I would use it to make learning fun, engaging, and meaningful for students.