Quarter-Finalist

Nicolena Castaldi

I love getting to create core memories, showing kids they are worth getting to know, and making sure they feel loved and seen.

Currently 4

in the Quarter-Finals
LIMITED-TIME: 2X VOTES

Help me become America's Favorite Teacher, win $25,000, a trip to Hawaii, and appear in Reader's Digest!

Voting for Semi-Finalists ends Thursday the 17th of April at 7PM PDT

One outstanding teacher will win $25,000, a feature in Reader's Digest, a trip to Hawaii, and a school assembly with Bill Nye!

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Tell us why you became a teacher

When I was in 5th grade, my teacher would chew gum and drink soda. I'd always say "if we can't, why can you?" and she said when I have my own classroom one day, I can do it too. I said I will and I did! I love also showing kids they can do anything they put their minds to.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Watching the lightbulb go off for kids when they’re learning to read is always memorable! You watch a whole new world unlock for them. I've watched kids go from crying when they are asked to read to being first to volunteer! It's magic :)

What would you do with the $25,000?

Realistically, pay off my student loans! :)

Planetary Society Planetary Society

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Limited-time: 2X donation votes ends on Wed 4/16 at 9PM PDT


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