Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because, looking back on my life, it was education that allowed me to become a better person and better man. The teachers that pushed me, challenged me, questioned me, and inspired me gave a young boy with a rough childhood the love he needed to make something himself so he can give back. The teachers I had growing up were more than teachers; they were near-saints who taught me not only their chosen subject but about empathy, critical thinking, self-control, and self-advocacy.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience is fairly recent in my mind. I teach music at a school for young people with cognitive delays and emotional disturbances. My music classes are every bit academic as they are social-emotional learning. A young man, very shy and once prone to violent outbursts and soft spoken, successfully sang with me alongside a professional orchestra and was invited to sing in their chamber ensemble. He showed maturity, talent, humility, and regulation beyond his years.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use for a variety of things. I would likely use it to improve and update my music classrooms, repair instruments, and should it be allowed, pay off debts that prevent me from giving more than I already can. It would be my goal to also use it towards funding journeys of getting myself additional certifications and professional developments that make me a better teacher and better man. Money like this should be used for the betterment of my students and, by extension, society.