Dawn Rupp

Tell us why you became a teacher

I used to pretend to teach to my friends when I was little. My mother was a teacher and I wanted to emulate her. I actually started out in business, but hated it. I worked in the migrant program the summer before I went to college (and for 10 years) and that solidified my decision to transfer to education.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There are many memorable days in teaching if you take the time to reflect. My favorites are when students struggle, but keep trying to understand and when they do I love the look of accomplishment on their face.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Well, I am retiring this year (after 35 years). I can’t really afford to, but life is too short. My father died at 43 and mother at 66, so I want to travel. I want to get a camper and travel with my husband.