Tell us why you became a teacher

When I was younger, I had a teacher who never gave up on me. At the beginning of college, I didn't want to be a teacher because I knew I would have students as challenging as I was. I realized that because of who I was, I could appreciate the importance of patience with the student. Having compassion for the difficult times, but also to give accountability.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

When I began teaching, I had a student who did not love math but tolerated it. Several years later, that same student became a math teacher. What a blessing to me to see them give back to the students.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use much of it to take my wife on a much-needed vacation. I would also catch up with some of my bills, so I am not so stressed about the finances.