Dawn Barton

Tell us why you became a teacher

Imagine you are sitting quietly at your desk. There is lots of chatter. Students are sharing answers and working hard. However, you remain quiet for fear of sharing and being called stupid. This student was me once upon a time. I want to make a difference and be that shinning light for those who don’t believe in themselves. I want to show them how important they are and coach them to be a productive member of society. Being a teacher is my niche. I wouldn’t want to do anything else!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience involved a student who came with a lot of baggage. He struggled to come to school, and he often had explosive behavior outbursts that disrupted the learning environment. Who would have thought that having a lunch bunch with him would completely change his demeanor? One lunch bunch turned into 2 and then 3….they continued for the remainder of the year. He went from doing no work to completing every assignment. All of his zeros became A’s and B’s.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Teaching at a Title 1 school with limited resources, I would use it to buy school supplies and clothing for those student in need. I would look into fun after school activities for students and their parents to participate.