Tell us why you became a teacher

As a student with special needs, I always looked to my teachers for guidance. They made me feel accepted by giving me sense of belonging to something bigger than the classroom. I had one teacher my high school year that helped me obtain a writing job with a newspaper. I knew that I wanted a career in writing, but didn’t think I could achieve it because of my disability. I decided to become a teacher so that I could advocate for students like me. Every day I look back and remember that teacher.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience has been when I worked teaching fifth grade science. All year the students worked hard. They were driven and focused. They developed a love for Science. We did everything hands-on very focused on vocabulary. We recently found out that we beat the state of Texas scores for the state testing, and we earned the very first distinction in science for our campus 2 years consecutive. My students were so proud.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If my school were to receive $25,000 it would be a huge blessing. We are a title one campus where 99% of our students are economically disadvantaged and emergent bilingual. Our students don’t always have opportunities to experience hands-on science. Purchasing supplies, lab materials, new microscopes. goggles, science manipulatives,, and stem kits seem like basic supplies for most schools however we mostly work with pencil and paper and laptops. This does not create equity for all students.