Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher after working as an assistant teacher and realizing how deeply I missed being in a school community. When I returned, I stepped into both a teaching role and a graduate program. I teach in a therapeutic day school where I support the same students all day, building strong relationships and helping them grow academically and emotionally. Seeing their confidence build and those “light bulb” moments every day is why I love teaching.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Another memorable moment was with a student who transferred from public school struggling academically and emotionally. At first she was quiet and refused work, but through patience, consistency, and showing her that school could be a safe and supportive place, she began to open up and grow. By the end of the year, she told me she wanted to become a teacher because of me—one of the most meaningful moments of my career.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I received $25,000, I would invest it into creating an even more supportive and engaging classroom for my students. In a therapeutic day school, many students need hands-on materials, sensory tools, and flexible spaces to feel safe and ready to learn. I would use the funds to provide resources that support both academic growth and social-emotional development so every student has the opportunity to feel confident, capable, and successful in school.