Tell us why you became a teacher

Becoming a special education teacher was never just a career choice for me - it was a calling. I have such a deep love for children and seeing them grow to their fullest and limitless potential. From an early age, I found joy in helping others learn, grow, and feel successful. Over time, that joy turned into a passion for supporting students who may need a little extra guidance, patience, and encouragement to truly shine.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was with a student who struggled significantly with emotional regulation. At the beginning of the year, even small academic demands would lead to frustration. Instead of focusing on academics, I shifted my attention to teaching self-regulation strategies. After months of modeling and practice, the student paused during a difficult moment, took a deep breath, and asked for a break without prompting. This showed growth and why I love teaching.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest it directly to my classroom and the rest of our special education classrooms in the building. My goal is to ensure that all students receiving services have access to high-quality resources, consistent supports, and opportunities to build independence. I would also love to expand out access to sensory supports because our building as little to none. Finally I would allocate funds for professional developments to strengthen our knowledge of evidence-based practices.