Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because working with children has always come naturally to me. Growing up, I loved spending time with my younger cousin who had significant disabilities, and I helped in my mother’s in-home daycare while being the oldest of four. As a teen and young adult, I babysat, nannied, and worked in daycare while studying education. Today, I’m grateful to teach, advocate for students, and collaborate with families to support children’s early development.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Working with students with special needs has created many memorable experiences. One of the most meaningful was a student I taught while she was in kindergarten. She had a hearing disability and I helped her learn socially appropriate school behaviors and communication. This past year, I watched her walk across the stage as a high school graduate. Seeing her growth and success was incredibly rewarding.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With that money, I would first finish paying off student loans. I would then hope to put money towards our house. My own children are getting bigger, turning recreation into passions, and needing their own spaces. We have not had money to update our house in any way, and this would be a big help.