Paula Gordon

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to give back to my community in Jersey City. Growing up with limited resources, I overcame challenges, & I want to ensure my students don’t face the same struggles. Teaching is my passion&I’m fully invested in their success. I emphasize STEM ed to equip them with future-ready skills. My goal is to inspire growth&create opportunities. My hope is that 1 day they will grow up to pour back into our community because I want to help them achieve more than they ever thought possible.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I once had a straight-A first grader whose grades dropped. She told me that her dad was in jail, & her mom moved in with her grandmother, making commuting tough. I made sure she got counseling&we talked every lunch period. I created a“calming corner”in class for her. The next year, she helped the younger students in my class to share the kindness she’d received. This reminded me that students experience stress as well&that teaching is about supporting students emotionally, not just academically.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000 as America’s Favorite Teacher, I would use the funds to buy essential materials for my students, as I currently struggle to supply resources while managing grad school expenses, sometimes relying on credit cards. As a member of NAACP NextGen, this money would also allow me to continue to host college tours & prep for students in NJ; ensuring they have opportunities for higher ed. This would relieve some of my financial stress and allow me to continue helping my students thrive.