Maria Harter

Tell us why you became a teacher

I wish I had a better back story to give you. I started college wanting to be a nurse. Long story short, I was told to switch my major or switch my college. I chose the former and thought to myself, “I’ve always loved kids, why not do teaching” and that’s how I got here today. A woman who loses sleep worrying if her student will ever be able to function after being molested by his mom’s boyfriend for drugs, worrying if her student who just became homeless will have a place to sleep, and more.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience happened while I was laying in bed. An email popped up from my principal this afternoon informing us about a meeting being held tomorrow. The meeting was to inform us about changes in ICE permission on school property. I couldn’t understand what evil person would look into these children’s faces, see the fear in their eyes, the confusion on their faces, and rip them away from the only safe place they know. Every day I will hug my students a little tighter.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Before today I would’ve said books for the classroom, books for students to take home, tools for us to use, and so much more. That has changed. All of the money would go towards programs within my county to help students whose families are immigrants to this country. They are in need of tremendous help. I will do everything I can to keep families safe and together.