Tell us why you became a teacher

In all honesty, I have always loved helping and pretending to play "school" when I was a kid. I remember one time a teacher gave me an old teacher manual to take home and play with. I was thrilled! Fast forward I am doing what I love and couldn't ask for a better rewarding career.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I was teaching 5th grade early on in my career. I had a female student who let' just say had a temper. I built a bond with her and tried to show her a better way of handling her anger towards other students. 5th grade graduation was around the corner and if you received a referral you would not be allowed to attend. She had a confrontation at recess. She came to me later and said she didn't want to disappoint me and get banned from the graduation so she walked away from the confrontation.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Well we all know teachers don't teach because of the salary... we do what we do because we love our students! A little extra money would definitely come in handy and get a newer car possibly!