Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I have a strong passion for helping others and making a positive impact. Growing up in a family of educators, I saw firsthand how teachers influence students’ lives, which inspired me. I enjoy listening, supporting others, and helping them grow. As one of the oldest cousins, I often babysat and created lessons for my younger relatives. Those early experiences sparked my love for teaching and shaped my desire to pursue this career.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was adapting to virtual learning during COVID. I learned new ways to engage students without face-to-face interaction. My 4–5 year olds often said and did the funniest things during online sessions, making the experience joyful. It was especially rewarding to finally meet my virtual students in person the following year and build those connections beyond the screen.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would invest in creating my own storybook that includes lesson plans and activities to support learning. I would also pay off school loans to reduce financial stress and set aside funds for my son’s college education. Additionally, I would purchase resources and materials to better support my students and enhance my classroom environment, ensuring they have engaging and effective learning tools.