Tell us why you became a teacher

I chose to teach because I saw how powerful literacy is in shaping a child’s future. When students learn to read, it helps them build confidence, gain independence, and a voice. I wanted to be the person who helps struggling students and help them discover that they are capable of more than they ever imagined.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable moments was watching one of my struggling reader finally read a whole page aloud after months of practice. At the beginning you could see how low his confidence was and after he was able to read, you could see his whole face light up and feel so proud of himself. That moment reminded me that patience, belief, and the right support can completely change a child’s future. This is the best and most rewarding feeling.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000 I would use a portion to take my family (4 kids) on a much needed vacation. Our lives have been focused on school and routines that a vacation would be the perfect thing to allow us to rejuvenate. I would use a portion to teach English abroad in the summer. For the rest, I would purchase flexible seating options, such as wobbly chairs and yoga balls as well as tangible rewards and incentives for my students.