Tell us why you became a teacher

There is not one solitary factor that led me to teaching, but a web of life experiences both positive and unpleasant that crafted this purpose I’ve pursued. In my own reflection, memories both haunt and revive the spirit that has evolved along with my physical life. Teachers truly do hold significantly critical power. The power of life and death; flourish or fade? To attain the potential of affecting life to this degree is a powerful opportunity to fashion a never ending impact.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

It would be a lie if I said I wasn’t nervous upon entering my first and so far only fifth grade classroom. On-demand writing? I have never taught this framework, and well, I could already feel the blanket of shame, and gaze upon horrific images of not just my failure, but the failure I would impress upon future writers. With many hours of planning and rehearsing, researching and remodeling. The day came and my students outdid themselves and then some. All credit to them, I’ve never been prouder.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I have never received $25,000 as one lump sum, so I have never really thought about it. I feel overwhelmed when a grandmother of one of my students affords me a monthly contribution of $50 for whatever the need may be. I am certain she does not realize the impact of her gift. It is like the two little fishes and 5 loaves that never exhausted, but eternally replenished. There is such a lack of resources in schools. I am often disconcerted of the lack concern or investment in our future.