Tell us why you became a teacher

I was working for a corporation, making rich people richer. I wanted to spend my time helping others and making a difference. My first job in education was working as an aide for children with special needs. Seeing them overcome hardships and become more independent led to me charting a new life course that turned into a 32 year (and growing) career in education.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

How do I name single most memorable experience? There are endless possibilities like: - unexpected moments of hilarity - students surpassing their own goals - watching students helping peers - learning FROM my students every day - and many others.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Children spent more time than ever tethered to electronic devices, completely disconnected with the natural world. With the $25,000, we could initiate a new program to engage children with exploring nature and all the joy and benefits of doing so.