Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I started my career as a geologist working with the EPA. . I worked on the NASAColumbia shuttle recovery project. part of my job was teaching groups how to use gps systems. I found the love for teaching in the field , so I went back to school to receive my teaching cert in science. Taught middle school in Los Angeles and loved it! Moved to New Jersey, taught middle school science and elementary stem classes and loved it. Wanted to combine my love for education and leader ship and became an admin

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching moment was teaching my students that it is not about the final project. It is the problem solving experience and tying that in to life lessons. A winner is improving and trying and working hard . Embrace problem solving - the best inventions were from some mistakes. Embrace every student thought!

What would you do with the $25,000?

It is all for my school. We have a garden space . I would like help in designing this area to make it an educational science space for my students from prek to grade 3. They crave science . I want more hands on experiences for them. The space is there , I just need the funds and assistance to create the educational arena and garden excitement . An assembly with Bill Nye for my students! I used his instruction , and my teachers and students today benefit from him. He never loses flavor!!!