Tell us why you became a teacher

Seeing the eyes through a child makes every day a new experience. I have always felt drawn to energy and pure love of life and discovery that children share. Being a part of something that helps a tiny human feel proud of themselves is so rewarding every day. I was blessed to have amazing teachers and adults in my life that inspired me to want to be a part of that magic every day in a child’s life.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable experiences in teaching are when the students light up and say, “I got it!” This happened so many times when I taught first grade, fifth grade, and now elementary science. I love every year when the graduates come back to visit me and say,”You were the one that made me love school.” Being able to have so many young adults have positive experiences in education and life and then say it’s because of me is the most rewarding part of my career. They made me love my job.

What would you do with the $25,000?

The money helping to pay my student loans would be a huge benefit! There are also some very cool science items I would love for my classroom that my students would love.