Erin Frankovich

Tell us why you became a teacher

I’ve known my entire life I wanted to be a teacher! I used to come home from school and immediately “play teacher” in my room with a chalkboard and my school supplies. I declared my major right away when I enrolled at the university I attended.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

For me, it has to be the journey. I spent 5 years after graduating working different classroom positions such as substituting, I was an aide, I did a full year maternity leave and building sub. I kept hearing that I was great but needed more experience. This was frustrating, but when I finally received the call about my 1st teaching position I cried tears of joy and celebrated with my family and friends!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would to be able to pay down some of my grad school debt as well as do some traveling! I’ve never been able to see parts of the world I’m eager to visit, especially Croatia, where my family is from because as a teacher I’ve always had to work over the summers. This would allow me to take time for myself.