Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because sixth grade was hard for me as a child. I struggled with relationships and confidence in school. My seventh grade teacher, Bill Hoffman, talked to me like an individual and someone who mattered.I teach to create an emotionally safe and calm classroom for everyone so that all children feel like they belong. In building relationships children build confidence and are willing to take risks in the classroom; to learn, play, share, and connect with one another.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

In May 2020, I met my students and their families at a local park since we couldn’t return to school during the pandemic. Even though we were practicing social distancing, we walked through the flower gardens, ate popsicles, and laughed together like we had done so many days before when we were at school. I teach my students. We are all on the same team and that day they reminded me. I’ll never forget how connected we felt to see everyone that day and hopeful for the future.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would like to create and teach after school programs for children to mentor one another. I would provide training, resources for social-emotional learning, and active play experiences including STEM activities, and health and wellness certification classes. All students would be able to share the program time with their peers and help each other to grow and learn new skills together, ultimately fostering kindness, and empathy during each program. Thank you, Amy Couch