Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of the examples of great teachers I had growing up. I believe teaching is a noble profession and paves the way for a brighter future. I was blessed to have strong teachers that helped guide and mould me to who I am today, and I can honor them by continuing to teach.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I’m a choir teacher, so most of my classes are spent singing, analyzing music, and making connecting to other cultures and people around us. When I was teaching “Dona Nobis Pacem” (a classic round that translates to “grant us peace”), we discussed in classes how even though this song was an old prayer to God, we can also interpret it as us, the singers, pleading with those listening to choose to be peacemakers. It was a powerful message that we are looking forward to performing at our concert.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were granted the $25,000, I would use it to promote the arts in our Title I school. It would be used to purchase a richer, more diverse music library that will help our students not only develop a variety of musical skills, but social and emotional connections with the world around them. The money would also be used to buy more instruments and supplies needed by the band, orchestra, and art teachers. It would be a huge benefit to our school.