Sherri Reed

Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I started at a school where some students did not have much family life. And even though young, I felt like I had what it would take to make them know that they were special; to build their confidence. I also knew that I could find a way to get them engaged in learning science and develop their critical thinking skills. I followed every game, every UIL competition. Every student that walks into my room becomes my kid.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was a group of students that were classified as learning disabled. We were learning about sound waves and frequency. We set up our own bottle band, learned to read music and then performed favorite songs for other classes. That group was a hit! We made and sent off hot air balloons, created our own light bulbs and so much more. After 40 years I still get pictures of our bent glass Christmas ornaments on trees of kids that are now grandparents.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would take the money and pay down bills. The reward is being a teacher is internal. It is not always financial. Over time as things needed to be repaired and doctor visits were inevitable charges started adding up. Paying off debt would relieve a great deal of stress from my life.