Cierra Littlejohn

Tell us why you became a teacher

I began my career working with juveniles after earning my degree in criminal justice. It was disheartening to see so many young people struggle without guidance or confidence. Those experiences showed me the importance of early intervention and inspired me to work with students sooner, so I could support, guide, and positively impact their paths before they reached that point.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Teaching has given me many meaningful moments, but the ones rooted in healing stay with me most. As a behaviorist, I worked with a 7-year-old who experienced deep trauma and expressed it through intense behaviors. I chose to see the hurt behind his actions. Through trust, support, and care, we built a bond. Moments like those remind me that teaching is about compassion, connection, and helping students heal and grow.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I co-founded a nonprofit middle school in Ward 7, DC to support students at a critical stage where many begin to lose direction. Now in our second year, I balance multiple jobs to sustain it. Rooted in community and whole-child development, our school needs support. This $25,000 would ease financial strain and help us provide a safe, empowering environment where students can grow and thrive.