Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to leave the same impact the way all of my elementary teachers did for me for my own students. I have a passion for working with children and when they understand how much they can make a difference for their own world and for each other, it is such a beautiful experience to witness. It is more than just those “AHA moments.” It’s their creativity, imagination, and when they gain independence, you know you’ve helped guide them to reach that milestone.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had a child who was bilingual and didn’t speak a lot of English, but understood a few words and could interpret transition phrases like, “let’s go wash our hands, please.” She could also answer to “yes” or “no” questions from peers or other teachers with a head nod. Whenever she verbally said “yes,” I was proud because that meant she felt comfortable communicating! One of my kids’ faces lit up when he offered her a book and then she said yes. He exclaimed, “Miss Melanie, she said yes to me!”

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would donate a portion of the 25K to Charity Water which is a non-profit organization that provides safe drinking water in developing countries. They stand by the fact that clean water changes everything and education is in that category of deserving change. Thank you for this major potential opportunity! It would be an honor!