Tell us why you became a teacher

My teaching path wasn’t a straight line. After starting in Music Ed, I stepped away to study music’s purest form, moving beyond simple replication to find my true purpose. I see music as every subject in one: the precision of math, the physics of science, and the heartbeat of culture. In my classroom, music is the essential bridge that helps students see how their entire education fits together.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Favorite moments happen daily; from the collective goosebumps of a confident choir to the pride of a student showcasing an original composition. Recently, while demonstrating a Chladni plate, a wide-eyed first grader called me a witch, convinced of my sorcery. It’s this genuine wonder that drives our "STEAM-Powered Concert" this May, where we’ll continue exploring the intersection of art and inquiry.

What would you do with the $25,000?

$25,000 would bridge the gap between "making do" and "making magic." As a small, often overlooked district with massive talent, these funds would allow us to diversify our instrument collection, upgrade recording capabilities, and optimize our space with better storage. This investment will empower my students to explore music without limits, proving that a world-class arts education isn't reserved for large suburban districts. We are ready to turn this support into pure student opportunity.