Tell us why you became a teacher

Teaching is n my blood. My mother was a 5th grade teacher and a dyslexia specialist. Although I thought growing up I would be in the medical field and then a computer programmer, I spent my time teaching Sunday School, Bible school, tutored younger students and worked in day cares. When I had to decide a major in college , my father made me look hard at want gave me the most joy and it was teaching. Here I am, 37 years later, still teaching!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I was an RTI interventionist for 15 years. I tutored 1-4th grade students in math. I had a student who I tutored for 3 years. She made progress and growth but still was unable to pass our state assessment. Finally, in 4th grade, her last year at our school, she passed. Letting her know she passed was one of the best moments of teaching. She was so proud of her accomplishment. This proves that educating a student is a marathon, not a sprint.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I am a teacher at the end of her career , who has spend my entire 37 years at one school, Stephens Elementary in Aldine ISD. I would love to donate some of the proceeds to the school to update the technology, help with field trips and incentives for my students. The rest would be used to my retirement, which I am hoping to be able to do in 3 years.