Tell us why you became a teacher

After teaching English in 3 countries over 7 years, my heart landed on high school special education in Oregon and I've never looked back. I use games and hands on learning to close the gaps on difficult concepts. Everyone is capable of learning! Nothing fills my heart like seeing that ah-ha moment!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I've worked closely with marginalized and disenfranchised students who were the first in their family to earn a high school diploma. For many people, a high school diploma seems like an obvious and evident step. But for those few students that gave it all the break generational cycles - it is a life changing accomplishment.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest in our students by providing behavioral health and teen dating violence workshops and tools to high school students in our rural area, where resources are limited.