Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

As a young student, I was positively impacted by my teachers. They invested time and energy in me, and I have always loved the opportunity to share that same investment in return. As educators, we have a unique opportunity to shape students’ lives on a daily basis through teaching and relationship-building. I hope that young people take away something that impacts them for a lifetime—the way it did for me. If just one of my students takes home something positive, I will have done my job.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching moments happen when a student suddenly grasps a concept we’ve been working on. The lightbulb suddenly shines bright! You can see the confidence rise. In the music and theatre classroom, the shift is electric. A note soars, a line comes alive, and the entire room changes. What was practice becomes performance. Those moments remind me why I teach.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use some of the money to help make an international travel experience possible for my students next summer. Many families face financial barriers, and I want every student—not just those who can afford it—to have access to this opportunity. The funds would help offset travel costs so all students can grow artistically, culturally, and personally through this life-changing experience.