Amber Young

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of watching “The Miracle Worker” in 3rd grade. I was so inspired by the way Anne Sullivan was able to teach and inspire Helen Keller to find the light in a world of darkness. I knew from childhood that was my calling. I started college and my teaching courses further reinforced that this was the right path for me.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was working with English Language Learner students. I remember a student who came from Mexico and did not know any English. I tried to put up posters around the room of common things in English and worked every day with that student teaching them English. By the end of the year he was becoming somewhat fluent in English and I was so proud of him!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I am a single Mom of a 17 year old daughter. She will graduate next year with high honors and has works so hard in school. This money would be such a blessing to help us go on a graduation trip to celebrate her getting into college. I would use whatever is left for learning materials for myself and my coworkers. We are always in need of materials to further enhance student learning.