Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to do something to help children, and after nursing fell through, I thought teaching would be the next best way. I think it was for a reason I was placed here instead of nursing, for some of my students I am not just a teacher, but a therapist, a confident, a second parent, a nurse, and a place of comfort in a time when I think they most need it.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable actually occured more recently, some of my first students graduated last year and some this year. But I will never forget the ones who reached out to me after graduation to tell me about their marriages, their pregnancies, their military signings, and generally reach out after they leave, showing what kind of positive emotional impact I had on them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would pay off some of my college debt, but most would be put towards my classroom, or helping fellow teachers get class sets of books we don't have, or materials they need for their rooms. If possible I would also use some to prepare school materials sets to have for students who may need support, but don't feel comfortable pointing out the need for help.