Tell us why you became a teacher

I was the student that was quiet, kind, and struggling with anxiety and ADD horribly, but didn't show the signs in a way that made these difficulties evident to others. I had a music teacher that took the time to notice! She helped me get the help that I needed and inspired me to do the same for others by becoming a teacher myself. One of my core values is providing a safe space for ALL students in my class, with a focus on differentiating my instruction for different types of learners.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most recent memorable moment happened during a performance. I had an 8th grade student that felt very nervous about his solo performance that evening and he asked if he could help me back stage until he performed. I of course said yes, he helped me with the performances befopre his and we had a mini dance party to the song that was being performed right before he went on. As this student made his way to the stage, he looked back at me and said "Thank You Natalie". I will always remember that!

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I win I would like to share the award and the Bill Nye presentation with another local immersion school, the "Nkwusm - Salish Language School" in Arlee. My school is an IB World School and community connection and collaboration are major tenants within our program. Beyond that, I would use our $12,500 to purchase a stage, risers and sound system for our school to be used for performances (we go to a different location for performances and rent spaces).