Tell us why you became a teacher

After graduating from Texas State, I spent two years unsure of my path. I took a small assistant role at a Montessori school and discovered I loved working with children. Later, in a public school ECE classroom, a mentor teacher showed me that young learners don’t just need bubbly energy—they need structure, consistency, and love. She helped me see I could truly make a difference. Ten years later, I’m still here and still passionate.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

In my 10 years of teaching Pre-K, there have been three scholars whose growth I will never forget. They entered my classroom dysregulated—throwing chairs, hitting, unable to manage their emotions. Through patience, structure, and love, they learned to self-regulate and become independent. Watching them leave ready for Kindergarten—calm, confident, and prepared—remains the most meaningful part of my work.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Update: I would use the $25,000 to pay off my student loans and do something meaningful for my family. Our first educators are our parents, and my mom has always supported and believed in me. She has never traveled outside the U.S., and I would love to give her that opportunity. She taught me I can, and now I want her to experience that she can too.