I struggled in school academically and socially so working with kids has always come easily because I related to how they felt. So often middle school especially gets overlooked or forgotten because it's the most difficult age to make connections. They need so much more than just academics especially in today's world. My motto is:" Even if you don't think you learned anything this year, but you knew that every day at least one person was showing up for you I am okay with that."

I have been lucky to have so many amazing experiences. However, I would have to say one of the most memorable was getting to watch my student complete her first mural right on my classroom wall last year. She had never done a piece on that scale before and she wasn't confident she could do it. I encouraged to try and if she hated it at least she could say she'd tried. Getting to watch her confidence grow as she worked on this incredible mural was an inspiring experience I will never forget.

There are so many things I could do with $25,000. A few that come to mind are filling out our school library and some fun items for our 8th grade events. Getting a new popcorn machine, an ICEE machine, balloon launchers, outdoor canopies, and other fun outdoor items. I would buy more mural supplies, help our Sunshine Committee that supports our teacher and staff moral, pay off some debt, and go to Disneyland!!