Erica Crawford

Tell us why you became a teacher

My teachers were some of the most inspiring and influential people in my life growing up, setting me on the path that I am on today. The opportunity to give back and continue that legacy, to be able to help today’s youth set their sights on a future they are excited for, is one I am incredibly lucky to pursue.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

After my very first year teaching, one of my juniors came up to me on the last day of class to thank me for believing in him. I spent all semester helping him pass my class and making the lessons and assignments more accessible to him based on his learning languages and styles. His exact words were “thank you for understanding that I wasn’t a bad kid, I just needed some help,” and I’ll never forget it. I hope to give my students that level of comfort and belonging every single day.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would funnel this money back into educational programs that benefit students. I was only able to go to college and be where I am today because of a scholarship foundation funded by individuals who believed in students like me. I’ve always wanted the opportunity to give back. Money should not be such a limiting factor for whether or not kids get the chance to meet their goals and dreams, and I want nothing more than to help alleviate that challenge for as many as possible.