Tell us why you became a teacher

As a high school senior, I wanted to be an ESPN broadcaster until I took a class called Teacher Cadet. This class offers potential teachers a unique opportunity to gain field experience and learn more about the profession. I took the class because I loved the teacher, who was also my freshman teacher. This class completely changed my perspective, and I fell in love with the profession. I am called to teach and to be a difference maker within the walls of the public school as a math teacher.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

This is my third year teaching, but there are definitely many memories that stick out. One at the forefront of my mind would be a promise that a resource teacher and I made to my Algebra 1 students last semester. I promised them if they worked hard and all passed the state EOC exam at the end of the class, I would buzz and bleach my hair. All the students worked so hard and all ended up passing the class and the exam. I kept my promise and buzzed and bleached my hair during spirit week.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Some ($5,000) I would want to give to my school and faculty. We have 3 teachers without functioning mimeo boards, and many teachers could use the extra supplies. A portion of it ($2,500) would go to my church, which is an integral part of my life. Some ($10,000) I would put towards my mortgage (I am a first-time home owner), and the rest I would save. I would also purchase the LEGO Death Star, as I am an avid Star Wars fan and LEGO collector (a wish list item I cannot currently justify).