Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I grew up in Detroit and I went to Detroit Public Schools. I know what it means to fight the odds and how important my really great teachers were. I wanted to be a positive force in the lives of today’s youth like my best teachers were for me.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experiences have been on the annual Lab Field Ecology Trip. This year marks my 7th overnight experience with students. On the trip, we fully immerse students in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem analysis. We are learning about Unit 8, which is aquatic ecosystems and pollution, for AP Environmental Science class, but we also have a great time together. There’s usually a night hike, singing, bonfire and s’mores, hayride and finally a murder mystery dinner. Great fun

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I had 25,000 dollars, I could start a scholarship plan for students who cannot afford the trip. This year, we got the price down to $25/student by doing several fundraisers and getting a grant, but most years the cost is 75-100/student. This can really be a barrier for some students. I’ve been there. It’s so embarrassing and blocks learning opportunities for those who need it most.