Tell us why you became a teacher

I'm one of those rough childhood stories. My favorite people were teachers because home life was rough. I always wanted to be like those teachers who got me through. Give children what I and lots of other children lack at home. I believe in being true to yourself no matter what, so I help children with those important social skills to live and work as a community of kind and caring individuals.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

About 14 years ago a little boy was enrolled in my, then, 2 year old class. He had just been put into the custody of his grandparents. He was so neglected that he had no verbal or social skills. We all believed he was extremely autistic...I worked hard to potty train, help him interact with others, and worked with therapists to get him to talk. I even used some of the skills the therapists teach to make him his own special book to help him with his sounds. He's now outgoing and successful!

What would you do with the $25,000?

So many things! My oldest daughter is getting married and trying for her first baby, so that is financially rough on my husband and I and also want to spoil that grandbaby. My brother and his wife just had their first baby, so i want to travel more to be around them. I'm October I'm going with them to disney world and 25,000 would help put my mind at ease. I always feel guilty for splurging like that. I would also like to help out some money down so my youngest daughter can get a new car.