Courtney Haggard

Tell us why you became a teacher

I decided to become a teacher because there are so many students who view attending school as a break from their daily struggles. Today, children deal with so many things that affect them. I wanted to be the teacher that provides a safe space for my students to escape from hardships and learn. I have always said I wanted “to be the little piece of heaven in a child’s hell.”

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

The most memorable teaching experience I have had, thus far, is sharing with my students that I had gotten engaged over the weekend! The excitement that my students shared with me in that moment was overwhelming! I try sharing little things like this with my students to promote a more personal relationship and positive rapport with my students within the classroom!

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I win the $25,000, first, I would use part of it to pay off what I have left for my wedding! Next, I will use a portion to put a down payment on a house as my fiancé and I have to purchase a house by July because our lease ends. Lastly, I would put the rest in savings and use what I need to supply my classroom for the next year! The $25,000 would be so helpful for me because I have a lot of financial obligations, although exciting,this year!