Student teaching surprised me. I didn’t expect to fall in love with it, but working with students changed me. I found so much purpose in getting to know them as people — their goals, struggles, humor, and potential. Guiding young people during such an important season of their lives is something I don’t take lightly. I hope I help students feel seen, respected, capable, and valued. If they leave my classroom believing in themselves a little more, that’s what matters most to me.

When my students and I hosted a professional development for teachers who traveled to us from across the U.S., I found myself stepping back and simply watching them lead. They answered questions, explained their systems, and spoke with confidence about their learning. In those moments, I wasn’t the focus, they were. Seeing them rise to that responsibility is something I’ll always carry with me.

Winning $25,000 would feel like an incredible affirmation. I have decided it will be used to fund my daughter’s graduate school Doctor of Physical Therapy program. A graduate program like this can cost over $125,000 and this would be a small way to help her avoid some of that debt.