Tell us why you became a teacher

I have always had a passion in being a teacher from a young age. I started my career by getting a job as a kindergarten para while studying education at FIU. if I had to do it again, I would not change a thing.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There really isn't one particular memorable experience. What I find satisfying is when I see that my students make a connection and tell me that they understand. After teaching so many students for the past 30 years, I truly love running into my ex students and hearing how much they enjoyed my class and learned. I jave even had a few tell me that they became a teacher because of me.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I received the $25,000, I would use a portion to support both my students’ learning. I would invest in hands-on math manipulatives, engaging technology, and real-world project materials that make math more interactive and meaningful. Another portion I would invest for my future and my retirement. Being 33 years in education, I plan to retire in about 10 years, so I would have more peace knowing I was able to invest towards that.