Tell us why you became a teacher

I received Dr.Seuss books in the mail as a kid. I not only taught myself to read but taught my 5 yr younger sister before she attended kindergarten. I loved the excitement of watching and listening to her reading skills unfold before my very own ears and eyes. I believe that inspired a lifetime of maybe this excitement could be a part of my everyday career. I developed a need to give the gift of reading to children. I was a natural as I spent every day at my local library after school reading!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I was moved to another school in August because I was hired at the last minute. I had moved to FL and was so busy raising my own 3 children that I had let my certificate expire! I had to jump hoops to get a Fl.certificate. It was a huge need as I was a single mom after going through a divorce and my children depended on my career to meet their needs. I never gave up and had to be tutored to pass the math. This taught me resilience and I landed the job we so needed me to get! I could breathe!

What would you do with the $25,000?

My youngest daughter and her husband have provided love and guidance to her niece Teagan and nephew Talan for over a year. She and he have proved that when the tough get going life can unfold goodness in a way that the good Lord will never forget! Their kindness goes beyond passion for family. Teagan and Talan's father passed in a car accident in 2021 and their mother chose a man that could never be trusted for their safety. My youngest daughter and her husband deserve a vacation. Celebrate you!