Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because teachers gave me hope for a future. I was always in trouble until a teacher encouraged me to join cross country. I didn’t have good grades until a teacher inspired me to learn. Teachers have given me all the opportunities I have today and I am grateful. I became a teacher to try to do the same for students who are feeling angry, left behind, and hurt like I once was.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience is one that continues each year. I play “Survivor” with my students except I am the host, not Jeff Probst. Each week, we play individual review games or team building challenges. We vote off someone from the losing team while winners earn immunity. After each quarter, students can get back in based on their grades, attendance, and behavior at school. The last student standing at the end of the school year will win a $50 visa gift card. It’s amazing and fun!

What would you do with the $25,000?

With the $25,000, I would pay down some of my student loans and my mortgage so that my monthly bills are not as high. I would also take a much needed vacation with my husband and two children. With the last bit of the $25,000, I would pay off my mother’s car.