Tell us why you became a teacher

"What we do is always for our students." That message was from my mom when I started teaching. I was motivated by my late mother to become a teacher. She was an elementary teacher who always told me that our students need good teachers. Teachers who care about their well-being, learning new things, and making learning enjoyable. She invited me to observe and volunteer in her own classroom. I was inspired by my mother's dedication, so I continue her legacy by being a passionate teacher too.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was recognizing my mom's efforts as a teacher at our school's 120th anniversary. The school recognized many special guests but my mother's name was not called. "Everything we do is for our students." My mom would always tell me. It was my turn to emcee the assembly and I proudly shared my mom's story. Everyone cheered for my mom's dedication as a teacher of over 27 years. It was a teachable moment for all to honor teachers. My mom's smile was worth it.

What would you do with the $25,000?

My heart is with my students. I struggle with my salary but I know many of my students come from low income housing and some are even homeless. Many need awareness of the positive opportunities in life. They need a win too. I would use a large portion of the monies to help my students learning such as purchasing more school supplies for students in need or help pay for their field trips. Lastly, I would use some money for my family and buy beautiful flowers for my late mom's memorial.