Aimee Merritt

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of my 3rd grade teacher. She inspired my love of learning in a way no one had done before. I also became a teacher because I love to see kids finally understand something and I hope to foster that same love of learning that my teacher did for me.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was in my 2nd year of teaching and I had a student who was labeled as a “low behavior student” throughout their schooling. In showing them grace, patience, and meeting them where they were at instead of where others expected them to be, they thrived and made the most growth out of all my students. Their parents were beyond grateful and claimed that they had never had a teacher care so much about their child.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the money to not only help my classroom, but my school community. It would be a great opportunity to fund projects we’re passionate about!