Tell us why you became a teacher

From an early age, I knew I always wanted to be a teacher. I chose special education specifically to ensure that no child is simply pushed along and that every student gains something meaningful from their educational experience. Whether it is functional or academic skills, I make it my mission each year to find the best path for each of my students. I also became a teacher to be a positive role model and someone students can turn to when they need support.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My favorite moment as an educator was five years ago while teaching 6th grade. Two students were set to move into the middle school program, but it wasn’t the right fit. The school was unsure how to support them, so I created a life skills classroom. Students practiced real-life skills like shopping, folding clothes, and starting "Wake Me Up Cafe" with an app for ordering. It was a rewarding experience for the students and me. I feel like that experience shaped me into the educator I am today.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would first put some of the money toward tuition support for students at my school, a private school for students with learning disabilities. Next, I would purchase additional resources to create an even better learning environment for my current students. Finally, I would save some of the money in hopes of one day reaching my long-term goal of opening a school focused on vocational and functional skills.