Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because a teacher once made a difference for me. Growing up in a small town, all of my teachers had previously had several of my relatives - and even my siblings - in their classes. The minute I stepped into my 4th grade class, I knew that I was part of something special. This was a brand new, right-out-of-college, teacher, who didn't know anyone in my family. She gave me a chance to be my own person and develop my own skills. This year formed my future.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There are many memorable experiences, but one of the most memorable surrounds my troubled student. He had emotional baggage that caused him to have severe and serious outbursts. I let him know that I was on his side, and I got the privilege of working with him throughout a two year looping class. The memorable moment came after he was in my class. He was asked to speak to the teachers in our area on their opening meeting. He stood there and spoke about all that he had become and all to come.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use this money to improve my school and community. Our school is old and has little in the way of outdoor classrooms. I would love to see our campus incorporate outdoor instructional spaces that would give teachers and students opportunities to be outdoors while learning and growing. I also see this as an opportunity to contribute to our school community.