Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to generate the same love for learning in my students as my teachers had done for me. I love teaching science because it encompasses everything we do every day and everything that surrounds us! Seeing students faces light up when they see an awesome science demonstration shows them that science is better than magic because science is real!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was watching the lift-off of a High Altitude Solar Balloon from our school field. This came to life through a 6-hour build process in which 50 6th graders worked together to create the gores for the balloon and tape together each segment until a completed balloon envelope was made. We then invited their parents, other students and staff from the school to watch the solar balloon warm up in the early morning sunlight before school and take to the sky!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest much of it into a savings account to support my 2 children in their higher education goals. College was crucial in developing my love for education and it's impact on my life is truly invaluable. As a teacher, I'd love to support my children in their career pursuits and their college experiences.