Callie Smith

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I want to help children of all ages. Aside from planting roots of learning, I want to be a child’s support system if he or she does not have one at home. I want to be a cheerleader for each child that enters my classroom, so they never feel alone. I want each child to know that I have full faith in their abilities to succeed. So many children come to school carrying so much baggage that we may never know about. I want to give these children the love they deserve.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had a student during my first year of teaching that received special education services. He started out as a 2 in my class. I slowly brought him up, and I saw him begin to understand challenging concepts. Then, he was sent to alternative school for 45 days. When he returned, he was incredibly behind. I worked with him alone every day until the state test. He ended up scoring a 4!!!! He was so proud of himself, and I could not have been happier for him.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would begin by giving some love to my classroom. As a second year teacher, I still lack lots of things I’d like to have such as flexible seating, extra boards, and positive incentives. I would also add some inviting decor to my room. I want children to walk in and immediately feel safe and at home. I would use part of the money to take my students on a field trip to see a planetarium. (I teach 5th grade science.) I think this would be incredibly helpful and a memory they’d never forget.