Pamela

Tell us why you became a teacher

When I first became a teacher, I would have said because my parents were both teachers, my brother and sister in law are both teachers and I very much looked up to my high school teacher and cross country coach, Doc Johnson. Now, I can truly say it’s because of the connections I am able to make with students. I can’t think of many jobs where one gets to have a positive impact on over 100 new students each and every year. That I can in some small way be a bright light to my students daily is why.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Today was one of the three most difficult and heart breaking as a teacher. One of our students passed in a car accident on her drive to school this morning. Had this not happened, I would have probably written about one of the amazing students that I am blessed to be teaching daily who struggle with math but still love my class and show up with a smile. Instead, what’s on my mind is the three students I have lost in my career and the reminder to show each student how much I care about them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would find some way to pay some of it forward to the younger sister of the student we lost today. I’m not sure what to do for her but I will be brainstorming as a way to channel my grief. I would supply my classroom with some math supplies and treats/math stickers/holiday decor that help to uplift and motivate my students! I would surely treat my work besties to a night out. Finally, I would use the remainder to take my own four kids on a get away this summer to make a memory with me!