Tell us why you became a teacher

became a teacher because my heart was always drawn to little ones. In my faith-based preschool classroom, I don’t just teach letters and numbers — I nurture hearts, build confidence, and plant seeds of love and faith. Watching a three-year-old learn, grow, and light up with understanding reminds me daily that teaching isn’t just my job — it’s my calling.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was watching a child confidently say the alphabet and count on their own — no calendar, no paper, just pure understanding. Seeing that spark of independence and pride reminded me why I teach. It wasn’t just memorization; it was growth, confidence, and a milestone we reached together.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If awarded $2,500, I would invest it right back into my children and our school. I would use it to purchase hands-on learning materials, books, and creative resources that inspire curiosity and strengthen early literacy and math skills. Every dollar would go toward helping their little minds continue to grow, learn, and flourish in a nurturing, faith-filled environment.