Dina Kingman

Tell us why you became a teacher

Ever since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I would come home from kindergarten and set up my stuffed animals at the dining table, tape a piece of paper to the wall, and teach them what I had learned that day. Explaining things and helping others learn has always brought me joy. Being able to give others a love of learning is all I’ve ever wanted and I am living my dream.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

A few years ago I was asked by my assistant principal if I could take on a new student. This student had low self esteem when it came to mathematics and had been struggling in their class. My assistant principal said they knew I would be the perfect teacher to empower them and show them that they can do anything. I grew a strong rapport with the student and still keep in touch with them and their family. This showed me that as a teacher, I can teach my students much more than just curriculum.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use some of the funds to get classroom supplies that I’m currently lacking. I would also use some of the funds to restock our grade level science lab. As department head, I tend to take on the burden of making sure all our grade level science teachers have the items they need to do labs. I would use the remaining funds to invest and begin a college fund for my son who just turned one. Investing in his future education would make me happy.