Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I had a teacher who never gave up on me. She something in me that I did not. She showed up everyday with compassion, determination, and hope that ultimately led to my transforming into my best self.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

The most memorable teaching experience will always be when students come back to see me when they are in high school or college. I love hearing about their growth, their passions, and how I helped them get to where they are now. This is memorable because I work in a low income rural area where many kids feel they are destined to follow in their parents footsteps. Seeing the "mold" break is special to me.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use this money to better myself. I currently rent and I would love to have a small place of my own. This incredible amount of money could bea substantial down payment on the land I desire. My dream is a tiny home and a small piece of land to call my own where I could recharge myself.