Desiree Deschenie

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to support students as they transition through elementary school. My 4th and 5th grade teachers made me feel seen and helped me realize that my voice mattered. Their impact stayed with me, inspiring me to do the same for my own students—to create a space where they feel valued, heard, and empowered. Teaching allows me to uplift and guide the next generation, just as my teachers once did for me.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was seeing my struggling students come together to plant trees by the river—a project that tied together lessons on the water cycle and the vital role of water in New Mexico. Despite a challenging year, they collaborated, applied their learning, and made a real impact. Watching them connect classroom knowledge to real-world action was inspiring and reminded me why I became a teacher.

What would you do with the $25,000?

My most memorable teaching experience was seeing my struggling students come together to plant trees by the river—a project that tied together lessons on the water cycle and the vital role of water in New Mexico. Despite a challenging year, they collaborated, applied their learning, and made a real impact. Watching them connect classroom knowledge to real-world action was inspiring and reminded me why I became a teacher.