Kaitlyn Waites

Tell us why you became a teacher

Growing up, I had teachers who cared for me and my classmates like we were their own children. Seeing the impact they made on others inspired me and I wanted to have the same impact on future generations. My father once told me “ children always remember the teachers who were kind to them.” I wanted and continue to show kindness to my students. I tell them I’m here for them, I love them, and that they are not alone.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My very first day of being a teacher, I had a student who laid in the floor and refused to get up. I had been warned about him by other teachers and I went home that night wondering if I had made the right career choice. Over the next few months, I got to know his story. I hugged him, told him I loved him, that I was there whenever he needed me. He did a complete 180. Everyone was shocked. This showed me the power of caring. He’s about to graduate now and I will be there cheering him on.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I just started teaching at a new school and so I will definitely be buying supplies for my students. I plan on giving back to my new school and helping other teachers out with buying supplies for them. I also just had a baby and we are starting a college fund for him.