Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I love helping others find creative ways to learn. Being creative myself, I see things visually, but as an educator I realized that not all beautiful minds think this way. So, I make it a challenge to find individualized ways to excite students (or adults) to learn that best suits their likes & motivations.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching moments was when my students at Dunnellon High School were taking their certification exam for medical assisting. One by one my students reported back to my classroom with a paper that read “PASS”. The excitement and overall thrill my students and I experienced this first year was the most memorable moment—this was happening, I was helping students begin their medical career. Now, they are all becoming nurses and even doctors & I couldn’t be more proud!

What would you do with the $25,000?

With the $25,000 awarded I would take it to the classrooms. Most teachers have a wish list & I’d like to assist with making their wish lists become a reality. Our classroom budgets get smaller and smaller each year and I’d love to assist educators bring an idea to life that would assist with the learning gains of our youth.