Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because school was hard for me. I often felt overlooked and unsupported until a community college astronomy professor showed me what passionate, caring teaching looked like. He believed every student could learn, and for the first time I felt seen. That moment changed my life. For 27 years I’ve worked to be the teacher I once needed—advocating for students, celebrating differences, and helping every child believe they can succeed.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable moments was advocating for a kindergartner in my SDC class who was nonverbal and using an AAC device. Despite years on an IEP, he was not progressing. I pushed for deeper assessments, starting with his hearing. We discovered profound hearing loss. Once placed in an ASL program, everything changed. Now in 3rd grade, he is thriving academically, signing confidently, and surrounded by friends. It reminded me why advocacy matters.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were honored to win the $25,000 prize, I would invest it directly into my classroom and students—expanding sensory supports, AAC tools, and inclusive learning materials for neurodiverse learners. I would also fund experiences that build confidence, voice, and belonging. Every child deserves to feel seen, capable, and valued. This prize would help me continue creating a classroom where differences are celebrated and every learner can thrive.