William Wainscott

Tell us why you became a teacher

I started as a sign language interpreter in the classroom and worked as one for many years until I saw many deaf students in those classes fall through the ¨cracks¨ or be overlooked by their teachers, or given work that was above their level of understanding or ability. I went back to college to get a master's in Deaf Education. I have been teaching now for 14 + years and have enjoyed the many challenges as well as sweet moments working with them. They helped me become a better teacher!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

The most memorable teaching experience I had was when I was teaching English class to middle school Deaf students. English is hard enough for hearing people who speak English but additional hurdles like American Sign Language as your first language and other disabilities, make learning English the least liked class. Struggling to find ways to encourage writing with a certain group and finding a way using Chromebooks and apps that became a creative way for them to write.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Winning $25,000, I would gladly pour back into my students and the classroom for materials and assistive technology that would help create a better classroom environment and programs that students could use to help them become better readers and writers that would then have a positive impact on their future. I hope to give to Texas Hands and Voices - supporting Deaf children and their families. I would also hope to continue to grow as a teacher as I go back for a 2nd MA in counseling/MH.