Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because my father was a teacher and principal, and I grew up seeing the impact he made. As the oldest of eight, I was always guiding and encouraging my siblings. I wasn’t a model student—my mind wandered, and lectures never fit how I learned. I understood the distracted kids. I became a teacher to create a classroom where students like me feel seen, understood, and inspired to learn.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my favorite moments in teaching is watching a student’s mindset shift from “I can’t” to “I can.” That change doesn’t happen by accident—it takes encouragement, repetition, and belief. I often tell them, “False motivation is still motivation.” Even if they don’t fully believe it yet, saying it out loud is a start. Confidence grows through action. When they push past doubt and succeed, that spark becomes real—and that transformation is everything.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won America’s Favorite Teacher and the $25,000 prize, I’d invest it back into my classroom and students. I’d upgrade classroom technology, add flexible seating, and bring in hands-on tools like another 3D printer to spark creativity. I’d help fund leadership experiences that build confidence and help students shift from “I can’t” to “I can.” The award wouldn’t be just about me—I would try to multiply opportunities for my students.