Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I’ve always loved children and wanted to make a difference in their lives. Teaching allowed me to raise my two daughters as a single mom while sharing my days with young learners. Nearly 30 years later, helping children grow, gain confidence, and believe in themselves is still the greatest reward.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was in my second year, when I taught a second-grade student I still keep in touch with today. In college, she wrote about how proud she felt when I let her hold the classroom keys and be the line leader. She never forgot those small moments. After 29 years of teaching, I’ve learned the smallest gestures matter—and some of my closest friends today are parents of children I once taught.

What would you do with the $25,000?

After nearly 30 years of teaching, the $25,000 would help supplement my teacher retirement as I enter the next chapter of life. As I look forward to becoming a grandmother, it would also help me support my two daughters and be present for my future grandchildren. Caring for and investing in the next generation has always been at the heart of who I am.