Clayton Glasgow

Tell us why you became a teacher

In many ways, I became a teacher because of the positive influence that many of my incredible teachers left on me; I wouldn't be who or where I am without them! So, my inspiration to be a teacher stems from my desire to be that type of teacher for the next generation of students: a teacher who cares, challenges, pushes, laughs, and most of all, loves. Further, young people have such a capacity to drive meaningful change in the world, and to walk with them as they do so gives me hope and purpose.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My first week of teaching was a chaotic mess. Students were all over the place, and I struggled to gain control of my classroom. The craziness peaked on Friday when I tried to wrap up a lesson with a fun activity that allowed students to move around the room. After 40 minutes of unsuccessfully attempting to reel them in, one student came forward, opened his arms, and said, "Don't worry Mr. G. You'll be okay. You're a good teacher." He then hugged me, and everything felt better.

What would you do with the $25,000?

First, I would contribute to my school's scholarship fund, as 100 percent of our students come from low-income families. Second, I would use the remaining funds to thoroughly integrate climate change into our curriculum. This would involve purchasing materials, funding workshops for faculty, and building a school garden, among other things. As the preeminent challenge of our time, few things are more important as educators than preparing our students to address and adapt to climate change!