Anthony Juggan

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe education should open doors, not close them. Too many students are told who they are before they ever discover who they could become. In my classroom, curiosity leads the way—students read, write, question, and wrestle with ideas so they can think for themselves. Teaching lets me help young people find their voice and begin writing their own story.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One day I asked my students who their favorite teacher was. One boy said, “My parents.” That moment stayed with me. It reminded me that the most powerful teaching isn’t just lessons—it’s example, guidance, and care. In my classroom I try to honor that truth by building curiosity, character, and voice so students learn not just content, but how to grow into who they can become.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use it to strengthen the bridge between school and families. Too often parents feel like visitors in their child’s education, when they should be partners. I would host family literacy nights, provide resources for parents to support learning at home, and create spaces where families and students learn together. When families are empowered, students grow stronger in school and in life.