Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I always loved school! I wanted to make school a joyous experience for students and help them to grow into the brilliant young people whom they were born to be. I realized early the importance of strong role models and supportive adults in students' lives, and I felt that this was a way for me to make a difference in our world. I also love writing and literature, and I wanted to be able to share my love of reading and writing with others.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was the first time that I walked into a classroom at Ohio University as an adjunct professor. As an Ohio Univ. grad, thoughts of that moment still bring tears to my eyes. It was truly a "Momma, I made it!" moment. To go from being a little girl playing school to a student in the OU College of Education to being an adjunct at OU and having the opportunity to work with the teachers of tomorrow truly hit home with my desire to make a difference in the world.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use some of the $25,000 to take my family on a wonderful trip, maybe to Europe, for all of the hours that I have spent lesson planning and "half listening" to them over the years. Then, I would buy supplies for the 8th grade classrooms at Zane Trace Middle School. I could stock and update our classroom libraries; restock colored pencils, cool pens, glue sticks, PENCILS, and headphones; fill the candy drawers; and stock the food cupboards. (Middle schoolers are always hungry!)