Eli Siebert

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher at the elementary school I attended because I felt it was such a unique and special school. It is grades 3 through 5 but it operates like a middle school where all of the students have their individual schedules. I adore children and I would love to give the same experience I had to the children that are attending now. Every year of college, I would contact the principal of the school to let him know that I had completed one more year and hoping that he would have an opening.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experiences are when former students would come visit to thank me for preparing them for the future. I have high expectations and would never "sugar coat" things to the children because I truly believe they can not only handle the truth, but in the long run would appreciate it. I've won the Governor's award for teaching and the Weston award 3 times in our district which is equivalent to teacher of the year in our town. My favorite moments are the "ah ha" moments.

What would you do with the $25,000?

$25,000 would be absolutely huge for me. First and foremost, I would use it to help my family. My wife and I are both teachers, so anything extra is huge. I would pay off some bills, put some to my daughter's college fund, and would use some in the classroom. Teachers are always paying out of pocket for supplies, so this money would be a big help towards that as well. This kind of money would be life changing for my family for sure.