Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

When I started helping in my children's classes I realized I had more to give. As I helped students, I loved helping them reach their potential and build confidence. Doing this during the challenging middle school years has been my dream. By sharing my love for history and literature, I get to spark curiosity and critical thinking. Most of all, I love creating a safe, supportive classroom where students feel valued, capable, and excited about learning rather than overwhelmed by it.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

A student once told me every teacher he’d had hated him. He already saw himself as a failure, and a difficult home life only reinforced that belief. I focused on offering stability, acceptance, and high expectations. Over time, he began saying he planned to attend college, something he once thought impossible. He's moved onto a new grade, but he still comes to see me often, a sign that he knows my classroom is a place he is always welcome. I hope everyday that his story will have a happy ending.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Over the last year I had to split my time between teaching and caring for my daughter in the children's hospital as she fought cancer. The beginning of this school year was the end of her battle when she passed away on September 20th. That money would be spread over hospital bills that are still coming in, regular bills, and maybe even a trip for my family who have dealt with so much trauma over the past year. And, because I'm a teacher, I always end up spending money on my class or classroom.