Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I had a teacher that believed in me as a child. Ms. Griggs, my 3rd grade teacher, always made me feel heard. I was a quiet, introverted, hardworking student and she always made sure to let me know she saw me. I knew I wanted to make every child I taught feel as smart and supported as she made me feel. She gave me the confidence I needed to know that I could achieve anything I set my mind to. I think everyone has at least one teacher they can say the same about.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience is when one of my student’s parents wrote me a message at the end of the school year. She recalled how her child, who was new to the school that year and was a nervous wreck, came home after the first day and reported that he actually had a great day. He told her “Ms. Thomas sat with me at lunch and made the day much better. I love my new school.” This note proved to me that something so small can make a difference for a student and their family.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the money to make sure all students in my area have access to what they need in order to succeed. Whether that is access to school supplies, tutoring, or money for enrichment activities and extracurricular hobbies, all children deserve the opportunity to learn and thrive!