Christopher Reynolds

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher after working as a corrections officer, where I saw the impact of poor choices and lack of guidance in our communities. I wanted to make a difference earlier in young people’s lives. After nearly twenty years of coaching athletics, I’ve seen how mentorship and accountability can change futures. Teaching allows me to combine structure, support, and real-world perspective to help students succeed before negative patterns take hold.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my favorite teaching moments was during my first year when a student gave me a picture he had spent a long time drawing just for me. It was a simple gift, but it meant everything. It reminded me that teaching is about connection and impact. That moment reaffirmed why I chose this profession, to build relationships and make a difference in students’ lives.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would update classroom resources with new books and desks, improve athletic equipment, and most importantly, fund meaningful field trips. Our rural students don’t always get opportunities to explore beyond their community, so I would use the funds to expose them to colleges, museums, and career experiences that broaden their horizons and inspire their future goals.