Emily Fleming

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I had so many great teachers who helped me when I was growing up. They encouraged me to be the best I could be and made a huge difference in my life and the way I saw my education. They taught me learning and school could be fun and I wanted to be able to bring that to a classroom of my own for the next generation of students. I had a wonderful time in school, especially elementary school, so I wanted to be able to foster that love of learning in kids.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I started teaching during Covid in 2020 so I was virtual with my students for the first 6 months so teaching. My most memorable teaching was starting the 2021-2022 school year and getting to experience the excitement and joy of an in-person first day of school. It was so wonderful to be able to welcome students into the classroom and spend time with the school staff to start the year all together after starting the year completely virtual the year before.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Classroom materials are expensive! I would love to use the money to get more flexible seating for students. After using some of the money for that I would also love to use the money to fund a musical at my school or support the music program! Finally I would use some to treat myself and my coworkers to a nice lunch- I love my school community and would want to use this to give back to all the staff who support me daily!