Andrea vechery

Tell us why you became a teacher

I was a substitute and I subbed at many schools. One day I subbed at a center school and it touched my heart. It was challenging, but each challenge was worth it as students were becoming better behaviorally. I went to school to become a teacher and continued to sub at that school. I learned that it takes different approaches and hard work and energy, but when the light finally turns on and you see a student make progress, all the scars are worth it!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had a non- verbal student. She was very aggressive and I thought it was because of communication deficits. I took the communication device that she had one day and tried to make her use her words. She got more aggressive. I did it again the next day. This continued for a week’s time. Then the next week, she said bus is coming! I praised her for her words! I jumped in joy! She talked from then on, little words here and there. Now, I’ve had her in my class for 8 years, she speaks in sentences!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would share with my paraprofessionals because I respect them so much! I would also pay bills that I have accumulated, being a single mother and homeowner. I would invest the rest!