Tell us why you became a teacher

In college, I observed a 2nd grade math lesson where students were counting by 3s. One child, who did not speak English, was completely lost. I knew a little Spanish and was able to help him understand. The look on his face when it finally made sense changed me. In that moment, I knew I wanted to spend my life helping children feel capable, included, and seen.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

After 23 years, there have been many unforgettable moments, but the most memorable are when students do something they once thought was impossible. A kindergarten student writing his first sentence in English, a second grader reading an entire book independently, former students returning to share their success—those moments stay with me. This year, a parent told me I make her child feel seen and heard, and that meant everything.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use much of the money to support my students and strengthen my classroom—materials, resources, and experiences that help me do my job even better. I would also use some of it to take care of personal needs at home, including a few renovations, and finally do something for myself, like taking a vacation. It would be a meaningful mix of giving back and recharging.