Tell us why you became a teacher

I originally wanted to be a psychologist but somehow I was swayed into going into early education. I always loved school myself and figured why not be an educator. I would get to read, create art, do science experiments, dance and share my love of learning with the younger generation. It is now my way of making a positive difference in the world.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I don't really have my most memorable teaching experience as in just one experience but it brings me joy every day to have older students stop by my classroom in the mornings to say hi, to get a hug, help out with my new kindergarten students or just to come confide in me when they're having a bad day. I'm proud to have had a positive impact in their lives and they are comfortable being their true selves around me.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to travel and explore new places so I can share what I learned with my students. I also love teaching science and would love to have the funds to purchase science curriculum and lab experiments for my classroom and possibly school. I usually purchase my supplies myself or rely on my students' parents to donate supplies so it would be nice to have the funds upfront.