Tell us why you became a teacher

When I was in the 3rd grade, I was paired with a girl with CP. She was wheelchair bound and non-verbal, but what I noticed most were her pretty blonde hair and cute shoes. We became best friends. I never understood why other kids looked at or treated her differently. I didn’t see anything “wrong” with her at all. So it became my mission to protect her and make sure everyone knew how special she was. It was then that I became aware of the judgement and non-inclusive behaviors of others.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I was able to take one if my students back to their general ed kindergarten teacher, where she was able to read her a book. They tested her in that class, and she had been non verbal and very behind. Bringing her back to that teacher to share the victory together brought tears to all of our eyes.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I have chronic illnesses of my own that have caused such hard times. It has impacted my ability to teach in the past, which hurt more than any symptoms it had caused. I have medical bills and financial difficulties that impact me daily. I just want to be able to continue to do what I love. This would be the biggest blessing