Tell us why you became a teacher

I aim to make my band class positive and memorable. I remember being a senior in high school and hearing a freshman play her trumpet in the practice room. She sounded great! I told my band teacher "wow, she sounds great for a freshman". My band teacher replied "how about you go share that with her, and spread the warm, fuzzy feeling?". I paused for a moment, and went ahead and told her. Ever since, I've been on a mission to "spread the warm, fuzzy feeling" among students in my classroom.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

It was 2017 and I was teaching an 8th grade saxophone lesson. We somehow got on the topic of "what do you want to be when you grow up" and began discussing career options. Some students discussed the introduction of technology into the workforce, and others spoke of following in their parent's professional footsteps. One student, however, simply looked at me and said "I want to be you" as he pointed in my direction. The fact that I get to be a role model each day for my students is an honor.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Have you ever heard a recording of yourself and thought "that's what I sound like?". In band class, we experience this on our instruments. Listening to our music and reflecting is so important! I would purchase a recording system for my classroom. Next, I would pay the Marching Band Camp fee for families in need at my school, and purchase several new instruments. 10% would be donated to Compassion International. Finally, the rest would go into a 529 College Savings account for my 3 children.