Courtney Westerkamp

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because every child deserves someone who believes in their potential, even when learning looks different. As a special education teacher, the victories may be communicating a need, ordering food, or solving a problem independently. Helping students gain confidence, life skills, and independence is why I love what I do!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

A memorable part of teaching is watching students grow in confidence and independence while building meaningful connections with their families. I love helping parents understand their child’s strengths and teaching them how to advocate for the support their child needs, so that growth continues long after they leave my classroom.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use $25,000 to pay off my student loans and invest in my classroom. Reducing that financial burden would allow me to focus even more on my students, while additional classroom resources and materials would help create meaningful learning opportunities for students now and for years to come.