Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I grew up with an older sister who had special needs and I saw both the positive and negative impacts of a teacher’s relationship with these most vulnerable students. I want to be able to be an advocate for my students who not only shows them their potential, but allows everyone else recognize all the gifts and talents these extraordinary students encompass. They need to be recognized like their peers, not get lost in the shadows - because they are best at shining their lights for others.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My first year teaching I worked with a student who was rough - she wouldn’t talk, frowned all the time and had accidents every day (even though her mom said she was potty trained). On top of that, her mom was ‘that parent’ everyone feared. My mentor said ‘Maybe that child just needs some extra love.’ As soon as I had that mind and heart-shift with her, behaviors and our rapport improved - with mom, too! She is now 18 and is my God daughter who just had her own daughter!!!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest in professional development and tools to help my students learn more effectively! And maybe a little trip to the beach with my husband in honor of my late mother who always encouraged and supported my career and her ‘grand-students’