Mayank Handa

Tell us why you became a teacher

Becoming a teacher has allowed me to effect meaningful change in society and individuals' lives. It is a unique privilege to guide students, shape their future, and help them grow. No other profession allows me to inspire, uplift, and make such an impact on others every day.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of the most memorable teaching incidents I recall was with a nonverbal student. When I first met him, he was solely dependent on a communication device for a few basic phrases. After one year of hard work, patience, and undying commitment, he had come a long way. One day, I entered the classroom to find him looking at me and calling out, "Mayank, help." I felt so proud that day when I heard his voice for the first time. That was a moment I can never forget.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With the money in hand, I would initiate the "Learning Beyond Walls" program, which embodies hands-on workshops, captivating field trips, and various classroom kits comprising sensory tools for special education and virtual reality for interactive lessons. Professional development programs would be shared with teachers on modern teaching practices and mental health support for teachers to inspire creativity, inclusion, and critical thinking in students.