Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I love inspiring my students to learn. I teach honors biology to freshman and honors forensic science to seniors. When I was a sophomore in college I quit college to save money for my wedding. My husband was graduating right before our wedding. I did not go back to college until my last son was in school fulltime. I have not stopped learning and have 6 degrees and attend many webinars. I am currently working on my doctorate. I love learning and I love teaching.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I have many memorable experiences since I have been teaching for 25 years. The ones that are remembered the most are when former students stop or email me to tell me how they are doing. One girl is now a deputy coroner and she came to speak to my classes about her experiences as deputy coroner. Another former student is now a police officer and stopped by to tell me that "there is not a day that goes by that I do not use what I learned in your class". It is also about the relationships.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would 1st set up a special account for school supplies. My husband is retired and I spend from $2,000 to $3,000 out of pocket for new labs and materials. I would also perhaps purchase a 3D printer for my classes. My forensic students can use it for their crime scene projects. I am always looking for new labs for my students and have to purchase many myself because the school cannot afford them. I want my students to be interested in their science classes and try to keep up-to-date.