Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to make a lasting difference in children’s lives. I believe every student deserves someone who sees their potential, nurtures their curiosity, and builds their confidence. Teaching allows me to create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences while forming relationships that inspire students to grow, take risks, and see a future full of possibilities.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable moments was watching my students design and program robots to solve a real-world problem. What began as uncertainty quickly turned into excitement as they tested, failed, and tried again. Seeing a student who once doubted themselves proudly explain their solution reminded me that teaching isn’t just about content. It’s about building confidence, perseverance, and belief in what’s possible.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won the $25,000 prize, I would invest in furthering my education to better serve my students, expand hands-on STEM materials like robotics and technology in my classroom, and pursue high-quality professional development. This would allow me to create even more engaging, real-world learning experiences and open new opportunities for my students’ future success.