Tell us why you became a teacher

It started in high school accommodating the content and teaching uniquely, I was able to help one of my friends with a language barrier, behavior issues, and ADHD to pass all classes and graduate. Once I saw that light bulb moment, I knew teaching was my calling. Later with my college roommate, I was helping her to write her research papers in English as she was an international student. They both told me that I was the only one that ever helped. I've now spent 27 years helping hundreds more.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was my first year of teaching ESE behavior supported students at 21 years old. I was the youngest person in my district to ever do it and no one thought I was up for the challenge. That year was truly sink or swim as nothing I experienced was covered in my college teaching classes or internships. The students learned no matter what they did or hard they tried, I was never going to leave them or give up on them. I cared about their lives and learning.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were to win the money, the first thing I would do is use it to take all of my classes this year on an end of the year educational field trip to Wild Adventures. They could learn about all types of animals and have fun too. They deserve it for working so hard academically and behaviorally. I would also use it for future incentives and birthdays. Some to current and past students and families in need especially during holidays. I would also like to set up an ESE scholarship fund too.