Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I love seeing a child’s face light up when they learn something new. I love building relationships with each student and their family. My classroom becomes their other home for a short time, but a place they can always come back to.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience is when a student I had in third grade reached out to me when they were in middle school to share with me a memory from when they were in third grade. They had moved from another country, and did not speak English. So this was their first experience in an American school. They thanked me for teaching them in general as well as learning to speak English, and for being open to learning from them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to start a afterschool creative writing club where students would have the opportunity to explore different styles of writing along with art. I would also love to start a care closet for students to have access to necessities they may need.