Devon Hayden

Tell us why you became a teacher

Beginning in High School, school became my safe space. I spent every morning in my Spanish classroom talking with my teacher. It was then that I realized I wanted to be a person who students could come to with anything. Whether they need a simple fist bump to get their day started or need to have lunch with me, it all matters just the same.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience comes from outside of school. After student teaching, I went back to the homecoming football game the next school year. While watching the game, students began to swarm me, asking questions about my current school, asking when I was coming back, and telling me about the new school year. Knowing I formed these relationships in just a short time, showed me I was in the right career.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would revamp the school districts PE departments. Students already get so little physical activity every day, having brand new equipment would make it so much more enjoyable. With any left over prize money, I would help our students who maybe do not have school supplies, clothes, shoes, or anything else that may pop up during the school year.