Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to show that anyone, including those who have been traditionally marginalized, can succeed in STEM. I build my classroom on respect, critical thinking, and the scientific method, teaching students how to think, not what to think. I encourage risk-taking, resilience, and collaboration, helping students evaluate information thoughtfully and see mistakes as steps toward growth, both in and beyond the classroom.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable experience is my final climate solutions project. Instead of just teaching the scientific method, I let students truly DO science, collecting data, designing experiments, and defending their findings. They present their work to peers and even real scientists. Watching them gain confidence, think critically, and feel empowered by their own ideas is transformative.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would take students on a service-learning trip to Alaska to witness climate change firsthand receding glaciers, thawing permafrost, coastal erosion, and impacts on wildlife. They would partner with local organizations on habitat restoration and conservation projects. This immersive experience would deepen their understanding while empowering them to contribute meaningfully to affected communities and ecosystems.