Tell us why you became a teacher

I came out to Los Angeles for an acting career. I remember friends saying that teaching would give me plenty of time for acting…but I immediately thought: not if you’re doing it right! My Dad was an English and drama teacher before he retired, and the time and dedication it took to do the job well made an indelible impression on me. If I was going to make this my job, I wanted it to be a career. I put away my dream of acting, and opened my heart to teaching.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Through the years, I have had so many experiences that filled my soul. My first year teaching was such a struggle. I wasn’t confident, and one student gave me a difficult time. He had curled up under his desk, crying. The issue? His Mom was sick, he was responsible for his siblings, there was no food…he was ten. We went to the office to get him the help he needed. That winter, he brought me one of his stuffed animals. Pulling the string, it said, “some bunny loves you”. Still makes me cry.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to travel, or redo a room in my house…but, I have two daughters. One is already in college, the other is in high school and already looking at schools. So, realistically, that money gets put toward my girls’ school fund. But, BUT…my loved ones would want me to do something just for me, which is not really characteristic! Maybe would splurge on a haircut or outfit? This question is unfair! The teachers I know are just like me, and anything extra goes back into the classroom!