Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and capable of greatness. I teach with the same love, high expectations, and presence I give my own children. My classroom is a place where students are known, challenged, and supported. If I can help even one young person believe in themselves and see a bigger future, then I’ve done the work I was called to do.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most unforgettable moments was with S.W., a first grader in Southern Louisiana who never missed school. When I made a home visit, he ran to me flushed with fever and wrapped his arms around me. In that instant, I realized school was more than academics—it was safety and love. I sat with his family and asked how I could help ensure his wellness. Teaching means showing up, especially when students need you most.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, the first thing I would do is purchase high-top tables and chairs so my high school students can learn comfortably and confidently. Many of them are simply too tall for our current desks. I would also invest in flexible seating, literacy resources, and classroom materials that create a space where students feel respected, supported, and inspired to grow.