Dawn Hester

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe in the power of potential. I want to be the person who sees greatness in students before they see it in themselves. Teaching allows me to create a safe space, inspire confidence, and open doors of opportunity. Watching students grow—academically and personally—is the most rewarding part of my purpose.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

There are so many memories that pop into my mind! The one that sticks out the most was when I had a student who stutters and he was giving up on himself because he could not get out his thoughts when asked questions about his project. I pushed him. I would not let him give up and he ended up winning the science fair! My heart was so full! To this day I show his project as an example of what I want to see from all my students because it embodies what it means to persevere and give it your all!

What would you do with the $25,000?

25,000 would change my life right now. I am a single mom and every cent I get goes to making things better for my daughter. Teaching is a job filled with heart work but does not allow for much extra after the bills. I have been dreaming about buying a home for me and my daughter and this would help me reach that goal!