Scarlet Hart

Tell us why you became a teacher

Before becoming a teacher I worked in home health for many years and it tucked at my heart. I was working with adults that did not learn the same as everyone else and I felt there should be more opportunities for these amazing individuals. Once the opportunity came for me to become a certified teacher I knew it was my calling. I wanted to make a difference in the lives of children that sometimes fall through the crack and get left behind.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Working with students that are nonverbal and watching their eyes light up when they learn to communicate what they need. I worked with 3 year olds for a few years and had one student that was severely autistic and did not communicate effectively. He would have tantrums and I worked with him on signing a few words. The first time he signed "more" and I handed it to him. His eyes lit up because he realized I understood him and it was an amazing feeling to see the look of pride on his face.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Pay off bills and go on a vacation. Recoup and come by ready to work with these amazing kids. Sometimes the battery needs recharging so you can give your all and then some. I feel like if we don't take time for ourselves then we are shortchanging the students because we get burnt out much faster.