Tell us why you became a teacher

I always wanted to be a teacher but let people talk me out of it because of the money. I became a lawyer and practiced for 5-years. Everyday I cried because I hated my job and did not feel fulfilled. I decided to make a change. Teaching is far more stressful and difficult, but also far more rewarding.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I was having trouble with one particular student. He was acting out daily and I eventually called in the administration for advice. The AP asked me a question I will never forget…do you know what his home life is like? I realized I didn’t have any idea. She told me that he had it rough time at home and had to be the adult and raise his little bothers. School was the only place he could be a kid and he must have felt safe enough with me to be himself because he knew I would love him anyway.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would donate some to my school which is going through a capital campaign for much needed campus improvements, spend some on rewards for my students and upgrades to my classroom, and maybe a little on myself as a special reward!