Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

Math is hard. Life is hard. I wanted to be the person who made these things a little less hard, and a little more enjoyable. It brings me joy to watch people grow and progress academically and emotionally; I wanted to be a helping hand in the process.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

It is the collage of little moments- the time a student said "math is fun when you understand it," or "I'm locked in." The smile on his face when his grade improved from a 64 to a 74. The confidence that comes with her first B on a test. The opportunities to bond with my students and model what it's like to have someone show up for you each day. No singular experience could be more memorable than another because each student's journey is equally important and special to me (and them).

What would you do with the $25,000?

Pay off debt, complete a bunch of teacher wish lists, treats for my students, school supplies for low income students, contribute to my kids' college funds, and replace all the broken things in my home.