Tell us why you became a teacher

I remember the moment I decided I wanted to be a teacher. I was in my 8th grade math class and my teacher was telling us one of his lame popsicle jokes. His positive influence along with all my other teachers and my love of learning and sharing that knowledge persuaded me to choose a career in teaching. I wanted to be the type of teacher that also provided a positive influence on the students with whom I come in contact. I also loved the feeling of helping another person having a lightbulb momen

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

During COVID, there was a student struggling mentally from the isolation and being motivated to do anything. This student was very bright and capable in all subjects but had a passion for writing. So I came up with a story based survival chemistry unit. That student helped me to write the storyline. I didn’t see a hugely profound change, but it was enough to see former glimpses of who they used to be and taught me the importance of seeing the whole student rather than proficiency in a topic.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were to win $25,000, I would use some to pay off my student loans and save the rest to take my family on small vacation to create memories with them.