Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I am passionate about facilitating the learning of young children. I enjoy watching their eyes light up when they learn something new as much as I enjoy walking them through a tough time and helping then grow out of it. I am a lifelong learner and I love finding new ways to introduce the same academic and social foundational skills to my 1st graders each year. The daily visits and hugs I receive everyday from former students keep me going, even on the hard days.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was when I had 4, non-English speaking students come into my classroom in January after the school year was half over. My classroom embraced them like family and we all came together to teach them to speak and read in English. As they learned, the whole class celebrated their successes, no matter how small. By the end of 2nd grade the next year, they had each passed their language test as proficient English speakers.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000 I would pay off bills and help my 4 kids with their college expenses.