Tell us why you became a teacher

During COVID, I saw something that stayed with me. Some teachers truly found joy in teaching and supporting their students, while others showed that they did not love the job anymore. Teaching is not just a job, it is a responsibility. As educators, we help mold the future leaders of our world. The students sitting in our classrooms today could become tomorrow’s lawyers, doctors, engineers, teachers, and even the President of the United States. This is my reason I teach because of our future.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching moment happened a few months ago when a former student I taught three years ago emailed me asking if I remembered her. Of course I did. She thanked me for believing in her when she struggled with a low GPA. Although she did not go to college, she joined the Navy and is now a Navy police officer. She wanted to share her journey with me. Today, we still keep in touch, and seeing her succeed reminds me why I love teaching.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were awarded $25,000, I would invest it directly into my students. I would provide $500 scholarships to several graduating seniors to help them begin their next chapter. I would restock my classroom hygiene closet with essential items students need but may not have at home. I would also purchase clothes and shoes for students in need and keep my classroom stocked with snacks so no student has to focus on learning while hungry.