Morgan Franks

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher, because I feel drawn to children specially with special needs. I am not a special education teacher, but I do feel it is important to accept and celebrate differences of other people. Growing up, I always noticed peers did not understand other people and would jump to conclusions or blatant judgement. I wanted to be a part of the change to shape young minds to be kind and accepting citizens.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I have so many memorable moments in my teaching, but they all have something in common-the ah-ha moment. There is nothing that brings me greater joy than to work with a child day in and day out to help them gain confidence in a skill or learn their foundations. But my favorite example was a student I taught in 4th grade who stepped into my classroom and struggled to read CVC words. I worked with him relentlessly. In April, he read a story on a test and looked at me with tears of pure joy.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would give it to my son’s school. His school is a private school specializing in autism. My son is 3 years old with autism. We have been impressed with how far he has come since starting. I’ve had students come from that school with autism and be able to acclimate to a public school with little struggle. I have much respect for his school, because of their love, understanding, and care toward children with autism. I would use the money toward helping his school continue helping autistic kids.