Ferdaws Albadani

Tell us why you became a teacher

I was 3 years into college taking classes for the medical field. Only when I started working as a teacher’s assistant to make money that I realized I love the school environment. I notice the difference I make in a child’s life. I have been working in the school for 7 years now and teach 5th grade for 3 years now. I love building bonds. Especially the ones who left and moved on still come back to visit me. I see educating children as an ongoing charity. I feel rewarded when a child has improved.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience is when the children and I laugh about something. I’m always strict and stern to get things moving. But having moments when we can be ourselves and actually listening to each other, joking, enjoying our time together makes teaching fun. My class has always been a full house. Kids never want to be absent regardless if the weather is bad. They enjoy coming to my class. We build a fun, welcoming community where everyone can be themselves.

What would you do with the $25,000?

This money would lift a little weight off my shoulders. I have a daughter to support and debt to pay off. My income is only enough to live paycheck by paycheck. I have no savings and now, after 7 years of working with my loving school community, I am considering to work at another school due to my low income. If money wasn’t the problem, I wouldnt be driven out of the school. I would really appreciate receiving this money to continue on teaching without having to worry about my personal life.