Since I was a little girl, I’ve always known I wanted to be a teacher. I even remember pretending to teach my dolls and setting up little “classrooms” for them when I was young. There is something meaningful about helping others learn, grow, and discover their potential. I love being part of that journey—watching someone gain confidence, develop new skills, and realize what they’re capable of. Seeing that growth in others is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.

One of my most memorable teaching experiences happened years after I taught third grade. I had a student who lacked confidence and didn’t want to read in front of the class, but I continued to encourage and affirm her. Fifteen years later, she found me and brought her daughter to meet me. She told her, “I pray you have a teacher like Ms. Thomas because she taught me to read and believe in myself.” I hugged her with tears of joy. Moments like that remind me why I teach.

If I won $25,000, I would invest it into building a platform that allows me to empower and encourage others to become the best version of themselves. I’m especially passionate about helping educators rediscover their passion for teaching—to teach with love, purpose, and a renewed sense of their “why,” so they can truly impact the lives of their students.