Tell us why you became a teacher

I never dreamed that I would be teaching. The thought of teaching never entered my brain until I was helping an elder explain a few things during a community class. It was that moment at the board that was the catalyst for what I do today. I realized that not only could I learn my indigenous language but I could help others learn to. It was an amazing moment.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was when I sat with a ground of students and listened to them speak to each other in their language. That moment made me want to fight to get as many children to speak as possible.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the money on snacks for my classroom and for the Cherokee speakers that we are going to bring in to help teach.