Arwa Matalkah

Tell us why you became a teacher

My mom has been a huge inspiration in my decision to become a teacher. I’ll always remember walking through town with her, where people greeted her with warmth, stopped to chat, or offered help. It was clear she had a genuine connection with everyone. The respect and love they showed her left a lasting impact on me. Seeing how she made a positive difference in others’ lives made me realize the power of teaching. That experience inspired me to follow her example and make a difference myself.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was helping a student named Flavio, who struggled with Algebra 2. He was close to failing, but after providing one-on-one support and breaking things down for him, his confidence grew, and he started improving. When he passed, he told me, "I’ll recognize you forever for helping me." That moment made all the tireless work worth it. It reminded me of the powerful, lasting impact we can have on students, both academically and personally.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I had $25,000, I’d use most of it for the down payment on my first home, which has been a long-term goal. The rest I’d spend to celebrate with my students, maybe organizing a special event or taking them on a trip. They've been a huge part of my journey, and it would mean a lot to give back to them. It’s about creating a future for myself while also showing appreciation for the students who inspire me every day.