Christen Bellucci

Tell us why you became a teacher

Growing up, school was where I found my self worth and confidence. I want to create a space for my students, especially young girls, to feel good about themselves and capable of achieving their goals. I aim to lead by example. My students often compare me to Ms. Frizzle, but I take that as the ultimate compliment, because she encourages curiosity and risk taking, regardless of her students’ backgrounds. I’m so fortunate to be paid to feel empowered by empowering others.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Each year, I eat an insect in class to teach my students about the biomolecules we get from food, and encourage conversations about how people in different places obtain nutrients. I hope each of my students move on to the next grade level a bit more open minded, curious, and understanding of other viewpoints, than when they first entered my classroom in September. Even years later, my students (and coworkers) still bring up how I ate a bug in class, so I’d say it was pretty memorable!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would like to explore the world more. For each earth science topic I teach, whether it be oxbow lakes, glaciers, or chasms, I’d like to have real experiences to refer to and show my students pictures of. I want them to feel inspired and capable of seeing the world too.