Tell us why you became a teacher

I teach because I believe education should build the whole child—not just academic knowledge, but confidence, critical thinking, and real-life skills. In my classroom, I combine data-driven instruction with creative learning experiences so every student grows and feels empowered. Teaching is not just about content for me—it’s about helping students discover who they are and what they are capable of becoming.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable experiences was running into a former student who told me she still remembered a dance we used to learn long division—“divide, multiply, subtract, bring it down.” She said she used it all throughout middle and high school. That moment reminded me that learning sticks when it’s meaningful and engaging. It reinforced my belief that teaching is not just about delivering content, but about creating experiences students carry with them for years.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would launch a school-wide math initiative focused on hands-on, collaborative learning. I want to move students away from passive screen time and toward active engagement through math games, problem-solving challenges, and interactive stations. My goal is to make math an experience students enjoy while building confidence and critical thinking skills.