Amanda Powers

Tell us why you became a teacher

As a student, I loved school. I would even play "school" with my stuffed animals in the afternoons. In 4th grade, I had an amazing teacher who inspired my dream of becoming an educator. She made learning fun and brought books to life, fostering my love of reading. As a teacher, I use this experience to inspire a love of reading and learning in my students!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was teaching a combination class of 2nd and 3rd graders in the same room. I learned to adapt my teaching to meet the needs of all students. The students benefited from the flexibility and fluidity of the classroom make up. Students had the opportunity to be challenged and retaught as needed. Although this was definitely a challenge, I will forever be grateful for everything I learned from this experience.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would furnish my team's classrooms with new furniture that would provide flexible seating options for students. The furniture would also be utilized to foster student collaboration.