Tell us why you became a teacher

I became ab educational assistant for kindergarten in Farmington,NM 7 years ago at the age of 46. I loved working with the the children. They showed me purpose and every day was a treasure. The following fall I started my journey attending college with a goal to become a teacher. Two years later I was asked to be an assistant in a k-5 behavioral class. That is where I found my love for special education and the importance of advocating for my students and their families. This is my first year!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Last year I decided to teach a lesson on Germany and WWII. I created a lesson using two stories. Daniel's Story and The Diary of Anne Frank. My student's connected to the lesson in a way that was totally unexpected. The discussions and the way they were able to share their point of view was astounding. They talked about the lesson the rest of the year.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I spoil my students. I reward them to teach them to value hard work. I would like to have a savings so that I can buy a home one day. I don't have much saved due to caring for my handicapped mother and donating to my classroom. Having something to help me pay off bills and buy a little home would be my dream! I would add to the class prize box of course first because my students always come first!!