Elizabeth Raducha

Tell us why you became a teacher

I always knew I loved being a part of people’s lives in a positive way. I thrived on knowing I was contributing to someone’s good moments turning into days, weeks and years. I struggled as a student for most of my lower education years and I knew what students need to be confident in their learning. I found ways to individually contour my student’s education to meet their needs and it felt so good, I wanted to make it my life’s mission.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I am a special education teacher and early on my career, I had the honor of teaching triplets who had Muscular Dystrophy. During a lesson we were learning about different occupations and what types of jobs the students were hoping to have when they grow up. One of the triplet boys raised his hand and said, Miss B, what do you do for work?” Not only was this adorable and funny, it made me feel so good that this child felt confident that I was there because I loved them not because it was my job

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would create scholarships for students to participate in out of school activities. I think it’s often a missed opportunity for students to be able to branch out and seek their interests and find new programs or projects.