Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a Teacher to save the world. I believe education is essential to the survival of a free society. A republic like the United States depends on an informed and thoughtful citizenry. Without people who can think critically, understand their rights and responsibilities, and participate in civic life, democracy cannot endure. Teaching gives me the opportunity to help develop those qualities in the next generation.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

A memory that has stayed with me for years happened early in my teaching career at a charter school in Detroit. During my first hour advisory, a student suddenly came up to me blue in the face and choking on a yellow Skittle. In that moment, everything moved very quickly but also felt like it slowed down at the same time. I immediately performed the Heimlich maneuver and was able to dislodge the candy. It was one of the scariest moments of my life.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would give 166 dollars to each of my 145 middle school students.