Amanda Williams

Tell us why you became a teacher

I have always enjoyed the feeling I get when I witness someone else win. I knew I would be a teacher when my high school Future Teachers of America class afforded me the opportunity to work in a kindergarten classroom during senior year. Each day I had the privilege to teach the young students and the feeling I received after seeing the joy they would have after any “AHA!” moment made me sure that I would someday touch many young minds in the same way.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching moment happened after I transferred schools within my district. I left a school that I’d been at for many years. I returned for the sixth grade promotion ceremony for one kid in particular that I taught both second and third grade. When he saw me enter and heard me cheer him on, he smiled the biggest smile I had ever seen on a kid’s face. Afterwards, he came over to where I was and gave me the tightest hug with the biggest crocodile tears. I was so proud!

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won the $25,000, I would take care of my never-ending teacher wishlist first. Then, I would invest in some update items for my student stations, such as my own classroom technology that could help save on paper for my school. Finally, I would hope to give myself a relaxing spa day, so that I could come back ready to teach in order to receive more “Aha!” moments.