Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I genuinely love working with children and believe in their potential. I want to open up the world to them—introducing them to new ideas, experiences, and opportunities they may not otherwise see, and helping them grow into confident, curious learners.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My favorite teaching memory is from when I taught kindergarten. After weeks of engaging in hands-on science experiments, all the girls in my class came up to me and told me they wanted to be scientists. They were so excited and proud, and in that moment, I realized I had helped them see new possibilities for themselves. It’s something I’ll never forget.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were awarded $25,000, I would use part of the funds for an educational travel experience, such as visiting the Arctic or Iceland, to deepen my understanding of climate science and unique ecosystems. Experiencing these environments firsthand would allow me to bring authentic knowledge, stories, and resources back to my classroom, making lessons more engaging and meaningful. The remaining funds would be used to create hands-on STEM experiences, including experiments, materials, and technology