Colby Sanders

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher at age 18, traveling the world teaching debate to students in Asia, Africa, & Europe. I got that job because I was excited by the promise of travel, but I found that what I really took out of that experience was the excitement of changing students’ lives. I decided to hone in on teaching middle schoolers as they’re the age group most likely to slip through the cracks. These kids are at the crossroads of success and failure, and I want to give them the tools to choose success.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I once had a student with autism tell me that I was the only reason he came to school. From beginning of year to end, he only went up one grade level in English and Math scores, but that number is not representative of his growth as a person. He became more confident and better equipped to handle life’s problems. I want kids to grow even if they don’t like me at all, but it did feel good to hear that I was a source of comfort for him, as I work hard to make my classroom a calming environment.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would be a good teacher and put it back into my education. As a special ed teacher, I want my classroom to be the perfect environment for students with autism and ED or ADHD. I want calming music, mood lighting, comfortable seating, fidget toys, snacks, etc. I unfortunately don’t have the financial means for any of that now, but I know the power that these changes would have on my students success and their emotional regulation and I want them to enjoy school so that they are able to succeed.