Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I remember how lonely and out of place I felt in middle school. I didn't always feel seen or understood, and I wished for a classroom where I truly belonged. Now, I strive to be that person for my students. I want them to feel safe, valued, and excited to come to school- exactly as they are- while discovering confidence, curiosity, and joy in learning.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences started with a student's random question: What would happen if we fell through the center of the Earth? We paused everything and spent the period exploring it together- gravity, extreme heat, velocity, and force. Watching their curiosity take over the room reminded me of why I teach. Those spontaneous moments, when students realize their questions truly matter, are the ones I carry with me the most.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 to pay down my loans, invest in much-needed lab supplies, and work toward creating a true laboratory space with proper furniture for hands-on learning. I would also love to bring in guest speakers to inspire my students, expand our classroom habitats for living organisms, purchase an ultrasound for our ball python breeding project, and possibly return to school to earn my master's in science so I can continue growing alongside my students.