Shellia Cox

Tell us why you became a teacher

The reason I became a teacher is to give back to my community. When I was growing up I lost both my parents really young. Throughout school teachers would always say I had potential but never helped show me what to do with that potential. Until high school when I met Ms. Mraz. She would go above and beyond for us. She was more than a teacher, she was my friend. High school can be so confusing and hard to navigate but Ms. Mraz always had my back. I wanted to be just like her.I became a teacher!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

The most memorable experience I had as a teacher was I had a student reach out to me 3 years after I taught him. He explained that he thought I was the best teacher he ever had and he hopes I never forget him! Jonah was a brilliant and amazing student and it was my pleasure to be his teacher. Also when the superintendent of my school district came to watch me teach! I was so honored and humbled by the experience! Total out of body experience!

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were to win I would do something amazing with my children. I am a single mom and I would love to take my 10 and 14 year old to Disney World for the first time!