Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe every child deserves someone who sees their potential and helps them discover it. There is nothing more rewarding than watching a student’s confidence grow as they learn something new. My favorite moments in the classroom are the “aha” moments when a concept finally clicks or when a child proudly discovers something on their own. Those moments remind me why teaching matters and why helping children believe in themselves can change the course of their lives.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable moments was with a little boy who struggled at the beginning of the year but kept trying. One day at my reading table, he read a whole book by himself for the first time. He looked up with the biggest smile and said, “Mrs. Brown, you taught me how to read! I’m going to go home and read to my mom!” Moments like that remind me why I love teaching.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were awarded the $25,000, I would invest it directly back into my students and our school community. I would expand our outdoor learning space and garden so students can experience hands-on learning in nature, add an interactive walking track around our building to support physical exercise and mindfulness through meditation, and provide new resources for literacy and STEM. My goal is to give students more opportunities to explore, discover, and experience the joy of learning.