Valentina Benson

Tell us why you became a teacher

I used to sell health insurance, so teaching is my second career. I became a teacher because I knew I wanted to make a positive impact on our world. I also had two small children at the time. I went back to school so that I could have the same schedule as my children did while they were growing up. This was so important as we were all at the same elementary school during 911. It was so great that I got to go to work with my own children everyday for a few years after 911.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

This past fall, I had my 6th grade students create a model of the Sun-Earth/Moon system. They could create a three dimensional model, a poster, or a digital slide show presentation. Then we invited third graders to the science lab. The 6th graders were challenged with the task of teaching a third grade student about the Sun-Earth-Moon system including information about eclipses and the phases of the Moon. Watching my 6th grade students teach the little 3rd graders was extremely endearing.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I am in desperate need of dental implants. I am missing 6 teeth on top. I would love to have my smile back and be able to chew healthy food. I was planning to take out money from my retirement to do this.