Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I enjoy working with children and giving them opportunities to grow their mind and growing their potential. There is an absolute joy and accomplishment that you feel when you see a students realization that they have succeeded. It’s similar to teaching own children skills like riding a bike or taking their first steps.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable situation was with a student that was in a foster family. He felt like the world abandoned him and was always in some type of trouble. He was bright student that felt the he couldn’t do anything right. I taught him 7th grade and 8th grade science. He started out as an on level science student who I moved to my advanced level class. I wanted to show him that he was capable of controlling certain aspects of his life and that he had talent. He gained confidence and succeeded

What would you do with the $25,000?

There are so many things the 25,000 could be used for. I have two children that some of the funds would go to further their education both current and future. About 3 years ago I was diagnosed with a autoimmune disease that has taken its toll and we could use it on the medical bills that have accumulated. I have at least 10 more years in teaching in my career, which means I can use that money to put forward for students and their experiments.