Tell us why you became a teacher

I always knew I was created to teach. I started having a family at a young age and kept thinking I’d go back to college “when.” As my 6 children grew up, I was a substitute, an assistant, even taught preschool for a while. It wasn’t until our youngest got married and we empty nested that the “when” finally came to fruition. I became a teacher because it’s never too late to invest in our future generations.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had a preschool student whose parents were from Iraq. He spoke very little English when he first came to my class. I was able to have him for 2 years and watched his language expand and watched him grow. A couple years later I also had his brother. I still run in to this family from time to time and keep in touch every so often. When they tell me about their transition to America and how both boys are successful in school and how I played a part in that, it’s then I’m reminded why I teach.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest in my students by creating a classroom environment with updated technology, books, furniture and materials that provide optimal comfort and ease for learning.