Chris Burns

Tell us why you became a teacher

I struggled in school. I wanted every child to feel like they could learn. I teach them with love and encouragement. I was not shown that in school and felt dumb. I cerebrate the small and the large accomplishments. Learning is fun! I want them to feel that!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I am teaching in a low income multicultural school. These have a lot of trauma. I had a little guy that saw way too much in the hood. He could not talk or write. He slowly began to learn simple words them sounds. He spent two years with me before moving to first grade. He could write his name and sound out some cvc words as well as read some fry words!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would buy a light table and manipulatives to go with it. I would get new manipulatives that are more updated. Then if there is anything left I would go sit on the beach!