Curtis Reese

Tell us why you became a teacher

I was a nerd in college and met a ton of people with a similar love for science. I was doing undergrad research and talking with professors and I realized that the best part were the discussions we had in class and keeping the wonder about the future alive! I was lucky to have many great teachers in high school in college and they pushed me to become who I am today! I am an amalgamation of all the teachers and professors who taught me, and I pass that knowledge on to the next generation!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I would say when I was a high school teacher we would do science fair projects. I loved that the students would have to use the scientific method and show that they had to think through a problem and do background research to create a testable question. This was great because it took the ideas taught in class and made it real. This was when they stopped reading the book and did something with their hands! This really evened the playing field for many students and they had a chance to shine!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would pay off a few bills and I would do something fun with my family who has supported me over the years! It was hard to earn two master’s degrees while being a full-time teacher and also having small children at home! It was worth it and made me a better teacher!