Tell us why you became a teacher

There was a time I felt lost, broken, and without purpose. Now I walk into a classroom for students who feel the same. That’s why I teach. Through ELA and photography, I help students find their voice and see their worth. Each day starts with “What’s good?”—and one day, a quiet student finally shared. It seemed small, but it was everything. They felt seen. That’s my mission: to remind students they matter.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There have been a lot of moments that remind me why I teach, but this one sticks with me. I had a student in ELA 3 who made it clear he hated reading and barely joined in. Every day I start class with “What’s good?” One morning he shared something he was proud of, and we all celebrated it. I asked him more about it—just showing I cared. After that, something changed. He started focusing, participating, even reading aloud. Sometimes it just takes being seen.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would bless that teacher who made a difference in my life, help my parents and purchase some photography equipment for my amazing photography students.