Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

My grandmother, one of the first Head Start teachers and an early childhood professor, taught me the power of education and service. In 5th grade I befriended a new classmate from South Korea who didn’t speak English. Years later she told me I helped her learn English quickly. That moment confirmed what I always knew, even as a kid playing school, that teaching is where I’m meant to be.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable experiences was a “cultural suitcase” project. My ENL students created suitcases from shoeboxes filled with items, traditions, and memories from their home countries. They proudly shared their cultures with teachers and staff throughout the building. It became a powerful multicultural event that celebrated diversity and helped our school community learn from one another.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use part of the prize to pay down my student loans, which would relieve a huge financial burden. I would also invest in bilingual books and classroom materials to create engaging classroom transformations that make learning more exciting for my students. Finally, I would take a summer trip, something I rarely get to do because of my student loan debt.