Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher for many reasons, but at the heart of it, I chose this profession because I believe one caring adult can change a child’s trajectory. I wanted to create a classroom where students feel seen, challenged, safe , and loved. Teaching allows me to open doors, build resilience, and help students believe in their own potential.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

A kindergartner told me she’s not smart and couldn’t read like her friends. Instead of correcting her, we set small goals. We began with letter sounds than words, celebrating each step. One day she read an entire page and began crying. She came to me, hugged me, saying “you made me smart”. We don’t just teach curriculum we help rewrite children’s stories.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would invest it into the school. I would expand classroom libraries with diverse books, purchase hands-on STEM and math materials, and create flexible seating and calming spaces to support social emotional growth. I would also provide updated technology and take home learning kits for my families in multiple languages. Every dollar would be used to increase access, enhance home school connections, and ensure that all student’s feel supported and inspired to succeed.