Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to combine my two great loves: art and talking. I love showcasing my skills and passing them on to the next generation of artists. Ever since I was small, my family believed I would be a teacher one day. They were right. I love what I do. I love seeing the beautiful artwork that my students create, and I love that I get to be a part of their creative process.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience came years after this student had already long since moved on from my class. She found me on FaceBook and friended me. She sent me a message and told me that I was her favorite teacher when she was in school. She mentioned how I never gave up on her, even when she gave me a hard time. She said she wanted me to know that she graduated, and that she was grateful I believed in her.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I think I would invest the $25,000. Teaching doesn't leave a ton for retirement, and it would be great to have even more of a cushion for when that time comes. I am in education for the long haul, and it would be great to have a little extra at the end of it all.