Alexxiss richards

Tell us why you became a teacher

My 5th grade teacher made it seem so fun, and she was a huge supporter of me, so it became my dream. As I got older, I loved the fact that I would have an impact on students lives as she did mine. I work in a low income area, so I know some students come to school and it’s their only place of joy, so I try to make it memorable and happy for them.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I’m still only in my first year, but so far it was the first 10 minutes of the first day of school. Even just taking attendance was an ‘I made it moment.’ A moment I had been waiting for for 10 years. It was my dream coming true. Greeting all of the students at the door while they find their seats and talk with their friends about summer. Getting to know each of my students and building relationships with each of them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Since I am a first year teacher and work at a low income school, a lot of the money I would put right back into my classroom, on things like flexible seating, shelves, books, supplies. I want to make my classroom a welcoming environment, however it’s very expensive. I’d like a calm corner, as 3rd graders get frustrated easily and need emotional regulation. I’d like board games for when we earn fun Friday. There’s many things I dream to have to make my classroom my dream classroom.