Diane Teske

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a reading specialist/teacher because I saw the need to help kids who are struggling with reading. Its such a fundamental skill that has so much to do with Social Justice especially for students who are minorities and refugees. I became a teacher to compassionately and encouragingly address this huge gap in the education system, especially in urban environments. It is truly my passion to set a solid foundation for the remainder of my students future.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience is my best teaching year at Prodeo Academy, which is a school full of refugees from war-torn Myanmar. It was so exciting to see the kids get it! My students at the end of the year achieved a growth rate that year in the 99th percetile in the nation in reading, which is the highest in the nation! I was so proud of seeing these. Students achieve so much in such a short time!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would pay off my car loan and student loan for grad school. Maybe take a trip to Puerto Rico to strengthen my Spanish skilshv