Kristi Steidley

Tell us why you became a teacher

I nearly joined my best friends in dropping out of high school, but I knew I would regret. I worked hard my senior year attending night classes and Saturday school to be eligible to graduate with my class. I imagined being a teacher like those who were so kind to me, but I didn’t believe I was smart enough to earn a bachelors degree. It took over 2 decades, but I went from a 1.5 GPA in high school to graduating college with a 3.9. I now get to support my students in their goals and dreams.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

This is my first year. My most memorable was supporting my 6th graders write and perform a Christmas play. I had front row seats to the unfolding of their creativity. I loved supporting their ideas and seeing it come to fruition. They did such an amazing job!

What would you do with the $25,000?

First, I would have a classroom party with my students. After all, I couldn’t win this without them. Next, I would celebrate with my husband and kids by going to a Boston Celtics game in Boston. Then I would put the remaining money in savings.