Tell us why you became a teacher

I have always wanted to be a teacher, as long as I can remember. I had amazing first and second grade teachers who really instilled. Love for teaching at a young age. Ms Slavin and Ms Zuluck were kind, patient, encouraging and inspiring. Who wouldn’t want to be just like them?

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My youngest son was almost born in my classroom! I went into labor and had to have a kindergarten autistic student get my grade partner for me. I chose the only verbal child in my room.i trained him for several weeks to send messages to Ms D next door. I am a vegetarian, so when I went into labor my code was to send him for a ham sandwich for me. He did exactly what I asked and help was on the way! My youngest is most 17 now and I will never forget how my student helped bring him into the world.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use some to build a new garden at our school for my students to grow and learn about life cycles. I would live to have at least one box for echos the 9 autistic support classes. I would also use some of the money to further my education and take a few classes to learn more about technology in the classroom.