Mary Perdue

Tell us why you became a teacher

I started out as a business major because I knew I’d make more money and I was paying for everything myself. My parents couldn’t help me financially. I didn’t like it. I took a few introductions to teaching classes and I loved them. I knew I wanted to make a difference in young children’s lives and I figured I make ends meet one way or another if I became a teacher.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I teach pre-algebra to 7th and 8th graders. They are sometimes difficult to teach, relate to and make connections. My most memorable teaching moment is when I received an email from a former student who was now in high school and thanked me for being a great teacher and helping them through junior high even though they were not the best student at the time. This gave me more confidence in my teaching , knowing I’m making a difference in students’ lives and as they mature, they recognize it.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would purchase some classroom supplies, pay for an educational field trip for my students (since they do not get to go on any trips anymore due to financial struggles of our school district), & treat myself to a massage.