Tell us why you became a teacher

I remember sitting in my high school math class, watching the teacher interact with my peers and thinking "That looks like fun." From that moment, I knew I wanted to be that teacher for someone that look back on and smile. Of course I want to show my students the world of science and plant that seed in their brain that'll eventually bloom, but I also strive to be that teacher that provides my students with a space where they can truly be themselves because they know they are welcome.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I know it's maybe weird, but it is not a specific moment. It is the time spent walking around my class, joking with my students, getting to know them, helping them with their assignment, reassuring them if they are having a hard time, etc. It's the moments where they ask me for recommendations, they share with me that they got into college...Ok I know I am kind of rambling, but my most memorable experiences are just all of the little moments.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Oh man I would get a state of the art tank to finally have a pet turtle for the classroom. Probably name him Rocky after my favorite fictional character. On a more serious note, I'd make sure I had stocked snack cabinet for my students that need something to eat. I would also definitely step up the labs I am doing in my Physics and AP Environmental Science classes...or whatever I end up teaching in the years to come.