Tell us why you became a teacher

When I was a little girl, I always felt the need to help others. I also loved to learn. My sister who is five years younger than me was my first student. I used to print worksheets and work on letters and numbers with her when she was young. In high school I tutored children and I always found such a joy with helping all the kids. I wanted to make a difference in school and create a place where kids are excited to grow and learn.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

This past year I went from teaching pre-K to kindergarten. I got to keep some of my kids and loop with them. This is my most memorable year because I have seen these kids flourish from knowing a few letters and numbers to being able to read in books and be little scholars that they are. I will always remember these kiddos.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use it to pay off my student debt from teaching, I would also love to help and support the children at my own school. I work in a high poverty school or a lot of these kids don’t have snacks, good winter gear or other essential needs that can help make a child feel safe and ready for school. I also travel 40 minutes to work so I have to get a new car soon after putting many miles on my car for the past six years in this district