Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I have always wanted to be a teacher. My whole life, everyone tried to get me to do anything else, but this is where my heart always was. I became a middle school math teacher and I never looked back. This is where I want to stay. I became a teacher and get to watch the "light bulb" go off for my students. When they try so hard to understand a topic and they finally get it! I see the light bulb go off in their eyes or hear their excitement. This is why I teach - to make every student light up.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was when I spent all year planning a carnival for the entire school. I learned about fundraising, food restrictions; you name it. On the day of the carnival, I was running around making sure everything was going smoothly. I paused to look around at what I helped create. I saw students from all grade levels playing and experiencing their first school carnival. They rode rides, won prizes, and ate shave ice while laughing harder than I had ever heard.

What would you do with the $25,000?

$25,000 would help my family get back to where we need to be. A few years ago, I had to go on leave without pay for over a month while I was awaiting my baby's arrival. This put us in a financial struggle greater than I'd like to admit. This money would help dig us out of this hole and create a better future for my children. I would also be able to continue to purchase classroom supplies that allow my students to have a fun and engaging middle school experience.