Dareyl Plue

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to allow myself to coach sports. I switched from athletic training after seeing the effect a JV basketball coach had on his team. At halftime, with his team down by many points and players seemingly dropping out, the coach gave a speech about what they had to do to get back into the game - like a checklist of items. He spoke with a voice that was confident and without any demeaning of players after the horrendous first half. I knew then I wanted to have that impact on kids

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I don't have one memorable teaching experience. I think if someone does have one the they haven't taught long enough. Instead I have a collection of memorable teaching experiences that I will take with me long after I retire.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I was fortunate enough to win $25,000, I would put it toward my twin daughters college savings account. They are juniors who have achieved straight A's while taking AP and Honors weighted classes. Unfortunately making good to great grades doesn't rake in scholarship opportunities like it should.