Rebecca Burnley

Tell us why you became a teacher

I have always known that I wanted to be a teacher. I remember playing school in my parent’s basement always wanting to take the teacher role. The desire continued at my 6th grade career day when I got to hear from a teacher what it was really like to teach. Then in high school when I participated in my schools career study program. I now would have the opportunity to shadow my old kindergarten teacher. Work with real students. A full circle moment.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience happened during Covid. I was on a 1 on 1 virtual session with a mostly non verbal student. We had been working on signing and saying my name is ______. On this day did she not only sign my name is ____ independently but also verbalized her name for the first time! I will never forget the smile on her face. I think I cheered and sang praises for 10 minutes. It was truly amazing.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Completely being honest the first thing I would do is go on a vacation with my significant other. I’ve worked really hard for the last 7 years. I want to continue to have the passion and drive to teach for many years to come. A break like this makes that possible. I would use some of it to upgrade my classroom wellness closet, where I keep items like extra toothbrushes/ toothpaste, deodorant, feminine products, and snacks. As well as items for my classroom school store.