Sharla Rounsavall

Tell us why you became a teacher

Making the decision to become a teacher was very easy for me. I rdreamed of being a teacher from a very early age. I received my degree and was offered a job as a grant writer. After two years, I left this career and started teaching, taking a half cut in salary, but knowing I was fulfilling the calling of educating students. I feel strongly about serving others and making a contribution to society. Teaching has allowed me to do both! I love children and teaching.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There are so many in 27 years. I will say that teaching children to read successfully and then find books at their interest level is very rewarding. I call it the silver bullet! They fall in love with reading. A gift that keeps on giving. I am currently teaching math. Having students tell me they didn’t think they like math but it is now their favorite subject is amazing. I call it math magic, but it is really just sharing passion.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Again, so many things. To be honest, paying off some debt. Giving back to my church youth program by sponsoring children to go to the same camp that I attended as a child and was sponsored as well. And, of course an amazing vacation to relax and destress. I have never been to Hawaii, but would love to see the island!