Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I didn’t set out to be a teacher when I was in college. My intent was to become a performing musician and be the next Doc Severinson, but sometimes life throws you a curveball. While working on my degree, I got a part time job teaching at a high school and not only found I had a knack for it, but also that I really enjoyed sharing my love of music to other students. It didn’t take me long to realize that teaching was where I belong. It is a choice I have never regretted.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Two words: Giving Bach. This is a program developed by Richard Meyer where my students partner with a school with a special needs population. We play a concert for our "buddies" and then my kids go into the audience and teach the kids how to hold and play their instruments. We do this every year and each time it is truly transformational. The special needs kids are so enthusiastic and grateful and my students get to see how their musical abilities can be used to enrich the lives of others.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to say that I would do something spectacular with the $25,000 prize money...like, travel the globe or end world hunger...But alas, I am a practical person. I have four grown children between the ages of 22 and 30. I am fortunate that they all live near us in Orange County. Nothing is more important than family and it is hard to watch them struggle in this economy. I will split the money among them so that they can enjoy a little relief.