Colleen Bevacqua

Tell us why you became a teacher

My mission is to inspire students to think critically, question the world, and reach their full potential. I foster mentor-protégé relationships and higher-level thinking through discussions. As a history teacher, I emphasize global awareness. Education is my calling, and I create a safe, engaging environment. Collaborating with colleagues, parents, and the community ensures students are prepared for the future.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

It's hard to choose just one most memorable teaching experience because every time a student has an "aha" moment, it feels like the best one yet. There's nothing more rewarding than seeing a concept click for them. One of the most meaningful moments, though, is when I run into former students after they’ve graduated, and they tell me how much I positively impacted their lives—even the ones who were the most challenging in class. Those moments remind me why I love teaching.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the money to create lasting memories with my family while also enriching my teaching. Traveling to the places I’ve taught about would allow me to experience history firsthand, bringing it to life in a way that textbooks simply can't. By sharing my personal experiences with my students, I could make history even more engaging and meaningful for them.