Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher by design. I had just graduated high school, on a family reunion vacation in Virginia, we got lost, and stumbled upon this couple who graciously took us to their home to use their telephone. No cell phones back then. The wife was a special education teacher and spoke very highly of her job and it piqued my interest. I thought to have a big house, be that happy about work, sign me up. That fall, I went to college and never looked back. Grateful by design.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I have many memorable experiences as an Intervention Specialist, where do I begin. I have to say my most memorable teaching experience is when any of my students score proficient on the 7th grade Ohio State Test. The expressions on their faces is everything. They discovered their greatest source of power is within them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I am excited about getting married on August 15th of this year. With $25,000 I would use some of it on my wedding expenses, pay bills, and lastly create new opportunities for my 7th grade students at my school. Students in middle school need transition services like job exploration, work-based learning, and self-advocacy coaching at the middle school level, to prepare then for high school and beyond. Students need to connect with the community and begin developing their interests & career paths.