Christine Fadanelli

Tell us why you became a teacher

I initially went to college to become an accountant, since I love math. Soon discovered that teaching math was my calling, as I am a very social person! In elementary school I was often the student teachers asked to “help” my classmates with math. I have struggled memorizing things while studying for exams, this led me into understanding learning styles, so I can help myself and students learn in a way that makes sense!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

As someone who thrives on motivation, when I changed subjects to sixth grade social studies I implemented an assessment award system to improve achievement within my classes. I award classes that achieve an “80-80” (80% of the class receives an 80% or higher on the assessment) with a popcorn party. This reward fosters a “We’re all in this together” mentality, having peers invested in the high achievement of their classmates. The reward of watching students cheer on their peers is beautiful!

What would you do with the $25,000?

Honestly, after switching subjects from math to social studies, I have a plethora of additional bucket list trips I want to take in this world! Each Wednesday I have “Where in the World Wednesdays”, which I present a famous landmark for my students to learn about. So, I now have quite a long list of trips I would love to take: Mount Rushmore, Christ the Redeemer, Tower of Pisa, Burj Khalifa, and Sydney Opera House, to name a few!