Mark Hall

Tell us why you became a teacher

My mother taught special education for thirty years. She spent so much time making sure every student had opportunities and development no matter their situation or circumstance. I spent several years working in sales jobs, restaurants, and other potential careers, but it was all in preparation to teach the next generation the skills they need to thrive in our current society.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My greatest experience comes from before I was an official teacher. When I was still substituting, I helped out at an academy where students that did not perform well in high school were sent. I coached a student through his mathematics courses. Two years later I received a call. He had gotten his welding degree from a local community college and was living a life he had never thought possible. Those are the true goals of education.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest the money back into my local school district. I teach mathematics, but my true focus is on the students’ needs. I have helped in the theatre department, English, Science, and wherever else I have been needed. I would love to build a class structure that teaches students how to design their own businesses and has a curriculum based on their personal goals.