I became a teacher after ten years as a Medical Laboratory Scientist in hospital compliance and infection prevention. In the hospital I safeguarded lives through precision and data. In the classroom I build confidence through hands on science and real world connections. When another student wrote me, "Even when my grades were bad and I was at my lowest, you never looked at me like I was a failure", I knew I had found my calling as a compassionate educator.

One of my most memorable moments was receiving a note from a student that said, “you are the first teacher that see’s me.” That student had struggled quietly all year. Through hands on labs and real conversations, I watched confidence replace doubt. Seeing that growth and knowing I helped them feel valued reminded me that teaching is about more than content. It is about truly seeing and believing in each child.

With $25,000, I would build a greenhouse for our sensory and community garden. Students would grow fresh produce year round while learning plant biology, sustainability, and stewardship through hands on science. The harvest would supply our local food pantry, allowing students to see their learning serve real families. This project would unite faith, science, and service in a lasting way.