Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I was a struggling reader as a child and worked hard to build my literacy expertise so that no child has to feel the way I did when it came to reading. Literacy is a fundamental right for children, and they deserve the best teachers.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable experience was every year I taught kindergarten, when I spent months providing my students with the knowledge and skills to read, and I’d place the book in front of them. I’d always have 1 child tell me, “But I can’t read,” and I’d tell them just try. The look on their face when they attempt to, and they look up with such pride, saying, “I’m reading Mrs. Raye.” It always brings tears to my eyes, and every year, my students become empowered.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I am working toward a new chapter in my career as a literacy consultant, and this funding would help me reach my goal of owning a consulting organization that empowers teachers with the knowledge and skills to be well-informed and well-equipped for students. To transform learning for students, I will inform teachers; that’s my goal as I transition into this new role as a literacy consultant.