Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I love working with children in the classroom and through coaching. I was blessed to have such great teachers throughout my education and that inspired me to become a teacher myself. I want to be a positive figure in their life and help them build confidence in their learning. My goal is to help mold my students to become positive figures in their respective communities and to strive to accomplish their goals in life!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable experience was outside of the classroom. I was out shopping with my wife when I heard a person yell, "Mr. Paredes" from a car that was passing in the parking lot. He stopped and jumped out of the car to give me a hug and greet me. I was his math teacher and track coach in high school. To have an impact on someone's life that makes them stop parking lot traffic just to do that, meant a lot to me. Getting to see what my students become as adults is the ultimate reward.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would either use it to pursue a master's degree to eventually move to administration, or use it in my math class and esports program.