Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher as a Plan-B, a journey I tell my students every year. After graduating with a Geography degree, my plan to go into oil and gas faded due to the economic crash at the time. Using my minor in education, I reached out to some of my old teachers to get a foot into the door, and never looked back. I use my journey as a lesson to my kids to always have a backup plan in life.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable experience isn't measured by test score or accolades, but of love. For over the last decade, I have taught in the same district I grew up in and I pride myself in making the personal connections with my students, because I was once in their shoes on these same streets. Though my test scores are great, it is the daily hugs, handshakes, and heart to hear talks that make teaching memorable.

What would you do with the $25,000?

The $25,000 would go straight to my family. Not did we just buy a house, but we just welcomed our first child in January of 2026. So the 25k would help take care of our daughter, but also start her college fund.