Deborah Letton

Tell us why you became a teacher

Once I had a teacher who really seemed to see something special in me. While I came from a nice family I never felt like that before, that I had any qualities that stood out to someone else. Many times throughout my life, merely thinking of this teacher’s faith in me has pushed me when I needed it. That’s when I realized every child no matter their background deserves exactly this. My students leave at the end of the year knowing I will never ever give up on them.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

The bond you build with students can be incredibly powerful. One time when starting a new teaching job at a new school, my former students sent a bouquet of flowers along with a care package filled with handmade cards, titled, “Best of luck, Love your biggest Fans,” to my new school. This package came at a time when I was just starting to second-guess my capabilities and I was reminded that I can do hard things, something I used to tell those very same students. Full circle. ♾️

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would fix my teeth. My teeth currently affect my ability to eat many foods and maintain an healthy lifestyle. Aside from my health, smiling a real smile with my students and my family is something I dream to do again.