Tell us why you became a teacher

My grandmother was a teacher, my mom was a teacher, so I chose another path. I regretted it. I started substitute teaching when my youngest went to kindergarten and felt fulfilled for the first time in a long while. I found myself working with special needs, and then I met Alex. Alex has Down syndrome and is a bright light. He taught me more than I ever taught him. He taught me to love hard, laugh at yourself, and just be you no matter what. Alex is why I got my teaching credentials.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had a student on fifth grade, his name was Justin. Justin was autistic. At recess, he would play alone, so I helped him learn to interact with the other kids. But the most memorable moment wasn’t about teaching a skill, but more about building confidence. Our class was performing in a play. Justin had a speaking part. His dad traveled a lot but was at the play. When Justin came out on stage and did his part, his Dad had tears pouring down his face. Justin could be Justin, and that is enough

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would pay my daughter’s college off! I would pay bills. I would take a much needed vacation with my husband. If there was any left over, I would get a comfortable cute desk chair for my classroom, and maybe one of those tall rolling desks! I