Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of the connection made with a teacher I had in 4th and 5th grade. I was a struggling student myself; struggling with academics and home life. Mrs. Ciocca saw past my "bad attitude" to the young lady who just wanted to comprehend and belong. As I grew up, I wanted to be that person to others.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Once upon a time, I had a particular "tough" young lady (much like I was at her age.) I assigned my students to write a paragraph sharing what they appreciate about one of their peers - a name they drew from a hat. "H" picked "A". When "H" started reading all the nice things she had written about "A", I watched "A's" head pick up, eyes widen, and a smile spread across her face. This may have been the first time in her life she had heard such nice things about herself.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would buy a new-to-me car, as I currently drive my deceased mother's duct taped rig, lovingly named "Memaw's Car." The 2011 car is destined to be given to my 14 year old twin nieces, Ryleigh and Sophia, when they are old enough to drive.