Tell us why you became a teacher

I will never forget how my 7th grade French teacher greeted every student with a smile and made us feel heard and valued. She connected her lessons to our lives and created a true sense of belonging. I became a teacher because I want to create that same supportive environment where students feel seen, inspired, and confident in their ability to grow.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences occurred during my first year teaching Spanish. I had a student who struggled both academically and behaviorally. Instead of focusing only on correction, I prioritized building a relationship with that student and celebrating small successes. By the end of the quarter, their grades improved and they began participating confidently. When they told me Spanish was “actually kind of fun,” it reinforced that building connection drives learning and growth.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won the $25,000, I would use a portion to invest in my professional growth and classroom resources that directly benefit my students. I would also set aside savings for long-term goals and financial stability. Being intentional with my money allows me to create both security for myself and opportunity for my students.