I remember the day in June I opened my email and saw a message from Rob Nichols of the Thunder Over New Hampshire Air Show. At first, I thought it was a generic email, but as I read deeper, a jolt of disbelief went through me. My name had been put forth to be New Hampshire's Key Influencer, which came with a private ride in a Blue Angels F-18 jet. This had to be wrong. My family, friends, and students just shook their heads in disbelief. This was never going to be on my life's bingo card.

To be chosen as one of just 60 people selected for a ride meant everything. It was a chance to represent teachers and show my students and my own children that every decision holds the opportunity to open an incredible new door.

The scariest part was preparing for the flight. I was in a briefing room, assuming I'd wear a special suit. I was wrong. A Blue Angels flight requires the flyer to use their own body to fight the G-force. The more they instructed me, the more I saw these pilots as nearly superhuman.

Strapped in with my GoPro on, I watched my pilot, Major Scott Laux—call sign "7"—share a quick handshake with a fellow Blue Angel, then come over and do the same with me. It was a small gesture, but a moment I'll carry with me. He had no idea the impact it had—a silent promise that they had my back. Knowing that someone is there for you is the first step in building trust. I was ready.

With my headset on, I heard, "Profesora, can you hear me?" Wait. I had a call sign. I replied, "Yes, one question: How did you do in Spanish class?" His response: "Well… I never took it, but both my parents were Spanish teachers." My last response before takeoff was, "Well, 7, it looks like I'll be calling you 'siete.'"

The rest was a dream. It was like living inside a movie. I hit 7 Gs without passing out, and we completed nearly all of the Blue Angels' performance stunts over the North Conway area. I got to experience over 600 mph and cruise through Cannon Mountain like a scene straight out of Top Gun. This was single-handedly the best experience of my life.

My entire experience as the 2025 New Hampshire Teacher of the Year has been filled with surprises. This year has done so much more than recognize me. It's shown me that dedication and hard work should be celebrated and allowed me to show my students what is possible when you find your passion and surround yourself with people who lift you up.

I recently shared with a group of teachers that the award is a community award. No single person can accomplish something alone. When I flew to North Conway in seven minutes, I wore my Bulldog gear. My student, Isabelle Johnson, a senior who plans to become a pilot, and her mom were on the ground with my family. I flew in the jet and won the award because our incredible community opened these doors.

So, thank you, Bedford, for believing in me. Always remember: you never know what's behind a closed door. Take the chance and open it.