Tell us why you became a teacher

I became an art teacher because art was the first place I felt confident as a kid. It gave me a voice when I did not always have the words. Teaching art lets me offer students that same space to explore, take risks, and see themselves differently. I love helping students realize creativity is not about talent, but about curiosity, effort, and courage.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

During a sixth-grade self-portrait unit, a student drew himself as a flaming hot Cheeto. When I asked why, he said, “I’m spicy, loud, and crumble under pressure.” I invited him to share, and the class opened up with creative portraits of themselves. When I laughed so hard I broke a stool, the room lost it. “Flaming Cheeto” became our shorthand for taking creative risks.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would invest it where it matters most: my classroom and my family. I would expand access to art materials and experiences that help students take creative risks and feel seen. At home, I would use part of the prize to create meaningful family experiences and set aside savings for the future. It would allow me to teach and parent with less stress and more presence.