Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to help make a difference in and have a positive impact on children’s lives. I want to help them become their best selves as well as productive citizens who do great things later on in their lives. I strive to instill a love for learning along with supporting their social & emotional well-being.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was being able to form a relationship with one of my students who didn’t enjoy school until this year. All of her previous teachers had a difficult time with her, and I made it a priority to develop a rapport with her and let her know I love and care about her as a person. Now, this student loves school and is thriving in my classroom after years of being a behavior issue. She just needed someone to believe in her, and she found that teacher in me!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would put most of the money in the bank, but use part of it to provide financial help to a few of our students whose families are struggling right now. I would pay off their lunch debts and also put money in a fund for them to attend field trips that their parents may not be able to afford to pay for.