Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of the relationship I had with my own teachers. During some very critical times in my childhood, it was teachers who provided the love and support I needed to continue to succeed. Because of them, I wanted to pass on that same love and support.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience has been repeated several times over my 18 years of teaching. It happens when students get to a place of vulnerability with each other where they begin to offer unsolicited praise to each other within the classroom. I try to model and foster this daily, and they eventually start to contribute. Of all the lessons I can teach, I believe helping students have self-confidence but also contribute to each other's confidence is the most important.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Next year the plan is for me to help build a science curriculum at early grade levels within my district. After having taught high school for my whole career, I am used to having a science lab to work in. Because there is no lab available, I plan to use some of the money to add a lab sink and lab supplies. This will allow me to give similar opportunities to my new students.