Navnish Kaur

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of a pivotal moment in my life when I had to choose my career path, but I felt lost and unsure, with no one to guide me. Fortunately, my teacher stepped in and provided me with the support and advice I needed. She helped me see my potential and encouraged me to pursue my interests. This experience showed me the vital role of support in education, inspiring me to become a teacher myself. I want to create an environment where students feel supported and inspired.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was with an ELL who struggled to communicate. I focused on building her confidence in a supportive environment. Over the year, I saw her remarkable progress. The highlight was when she proudly told other teachers, “If I can speak in English today, it’s because of this teacher.” Later, her mother invited me to her middle school graduation, sharing that her success wouldn’t have been possible without my support. This reinforced the impact of teaching.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were to win $25,000 I would feel immense gratitude for both my students and family. First, I’d invest in resources specifically designed to improve my ELL students' speaking and listening skills, creating a nurturing environment that fosters their growth. Additionally, I would set aside funds to secure my children’s education, as this balance is crucial to me. Lastly, I’d allocate some money for professional development to continue growing as an educator. Every dollar would be an investment