Abby Shaw

Tell us why you became a teacher

Children are our future! There is no better option for a career for myself than one where I get to guide children to understanding the world around them and empowering them to use their voice to make their dream world.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

All of my most memorable teaching experiences come from outside of the classroom, when I've given children autonomy and trust. From rescuing a (dead) eel from the woods, to knocking down a loose branch from a tree, to working together to build a raft (that fell apart many times), to scavenging a deer skull from a creek, my students have shown me that young people are resilient, creative, effective communicators and problem-solvers, and are ready to make a difference in the world.

What would you do with the $25,000?

It would feel wrong to take the money for myself when the reason I even entered in the contest is because of my students. I would love to put the money back into our field trip fund to provide joyful and meaningful learning experiences to the young people who bring me so much joy and make my life feel meaningful!