Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher after struggling to find a job in the field of my college degree. I started as a substitute and quickly fell in love with teaching. Over the past 21 years, I have met incredible students, parents, and coworkers who have shaped my journey. Many relationships have lasted long after the school year ended. Each year, I continue learning from those around me and feel grateful to be part of such a meaningful profession.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching moments are when the “lightbulb” goes off and students finally understand a skill we’ve been working on. I’ve been fortunate to teach many subjects, and seeing their excitement when they succeed is incredibly rewarding. Students can be like sponges, absorbing far more than people sometimes expect and often more than they believe they can themselves.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I received $25,000, I would invest it for the future. Retirement will come someday, though not too soon because I would miss my students. After many years in a small-town district, I’m now seeing generational connections. It’s exciting to be approaching the thought of teaching the children of former students. I’ve taught some of them in elementary school and now again in high school, and watching their academic and personal journey has been truly rewarding.