Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to make a real difference. I’ve always had a deep passion for history, and I wanted to share that energy with students. Kids can tell when you truly love what you teach and that passion is contagious. When they see how invested I am, they become more engaged, curious, and confident. Knowing I can inspire that spark every day is why I chose this profession.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable experiences was having an honest conversation with a Russian low level ESOL student about the reality of her language barrier and the demands of the state Civics EOC exam. I told her she would have to work harder than most but that I believed she could do it. She rose to the challenge, passed the class, and passed the exam. Watching her overcome that obstacle was unforgettable.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use part of the money to pay off personal debt so I can fully focus on my students without financial stress. The rest would go toward investing in my classroom upgrading materials, creating more engaging projects, and supporting my ESOL and ESE students with resources they need to succeed. This opportunity would allow me to grow personally and pour even more into the students I serve every day.