Lindsay Clifton

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher so that I could make a difference in the lives of young people. The future generations are going to need help and I want to offer some real-life tips to help them get through. Life is hard, but teachers can help to make it a little easier.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

During my first year teaching, I had a Kindergarten student who loved to give hugs, but he never asked for them. He just walked up and touched people. I kept telling him for a few weeks that if he wants a hug, he should ask for one and wait for permission, that touching people without permission is not okay. Fast forward about 6 weeks and on his way in the door, he asked "can I have a hug?" My heart melted that he finally learned that lesson. He still loves hugs and asks for them every time!

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would take my husband on a fabulous trip to Korea so he could try all the foods he wants. He's my rock and I wouldn't have made it through my 1st year teaching without him. I would use a chunk to go towards home improvements on our house. We're also trying to have a baby, so some money would (hopefully) go towards childcare. I would also help my mother-in-law clean her house. My father-in-law just passed away and she could use the help.