Jennifer Johnson

Tell us why you became a teacher

I had an amazing experience with the music department as a student and I want to share that experience with future generations. My teachers showed me how vital music is for my own emotional well-being but also at the core of education. Music encapsulates every school subject while bridging connections in the brain and leads to well-rounded students.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

This is my first year teaching marching band at a new school. Watching my new students perform at the field show with my choreography, play the music by memory, and conduct the show all on their own was extremely emotional and rewarding to experience. I became a witness to their comradery, ability to work together, trust, and respect for me.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use part of the earnings toward building my own studio to teach music lessons from home with my own instruments, books, and technology. I would also donate part of the earnings towards local animal shelters to support homeless animals if I cannot adopt them myself.