Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I didn’t always feel heard, or like I could be myself. I will never forget my 4th grade teacher Ms. Stewart, she made me feel this way and that’s when I knew I needed to make every student feel heard, loved, and safe just like Ms. Stewart did for me.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

As a new teacher, my most unforgettable moment was learning that my class earned the highest ELA state exam scores in the school. In my first year, I poured my whole heart into showing up every day with energy, creativity, and belief in my students. Watching their hard work shine through on that exam was deeply moving and reminded me why I chose this career.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Winning $25,000 would allow me to give back to the families at my Title I school in the Bronx. I see their daily challenges, and being able to support them with essentials like school supplies, clothing, and food would mean everything. I would also invest a portion in my future as I work toward my master’s in special education and hope to start a family someday.