Tell us why you became a teacher

For 18 years, my ‘why’ has been simple: I want to be the safe, steady person I needed when I was young. I know what it feels like to struggle silently. Being a calm, reassuring presence for students as they grow and find themselves is what keeps me coming back.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was my first year and a half in a therapeutic day school. I was 22, fresh out of college, with 18‑ and 19‑year‑olds in my self‑contained classroom. I learned fast—about resilience, patience, and what it truly means to show up for students. That experience shaped the teacher I am today.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would split the prize between supporting my family and supporting my students. This honor comes from the work we do together, so I’d use part of it to create meaningful experiences and resources for them, and part to help my family who has supported me through 18 years of teaching.