Amanda Peraza

Tell us why you became a teacher

Becoming a teacher has always been my dream job since I was little. I was fortunate enough to have teachers that inspired me to become one. I know I am making a difference in the students I get to teach. It’s rewarding and challenging, I feel happy knowing I am helping and advocating for my students each and every day.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Some of my students are non verbal and have very limited communication skills. One of my non verbal students spoke his very first word in class. We were practicing our colors and he said when I showed the purple crayon he yelled purple. I asked him again he said it again, it made our whole classroom happy. I was able to tell his mom and she began to cry.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the money to get much needed supplies for my classroom to be able to crate a sensory calm down corner as well as have all the supplies I need for my classroom to succeed.