Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of my stepmom. She taught for 27 years and continued teaching through her battle with breast cancer until she physically couldn’t. She showed me that teaching is a calling rooted in love and commitment. When she passed away 11 years ago, I was attending her alma mater, Western Washington University. That experience deepened my commitment to honoring her legacy, and I carry her heart and dedication into my classroom every day.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable moments happens every Wednesday. Because our district has late-start Wednesdays for middle school, former students come back to my classroom to help. Watching them walk through my door again — taller, more confident, choosing to be there — is incredibly emotional. It reminds me that what we build isn’t just academic. The relationships, the trust, the love — they last far beyond one school year.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would pour it back into our school community. I would create a fund to quietly support families with unexpected needs, sponsor schoolwide events that build belonging, and invest in shared resources that benefit multiple classrooms. I would also support teacher appreciation and collaboration efforts, because when staff feel valued and supported, it directly impacts every student in our building.