Emily Zeringue

I have known since, at least, 2nd grade that I wanted to teach. I've never strayed from that, nor have I ever considered any other career. I became a teacher because it's my calling in life. There is no doubt in my mind that this is what I was born to do.

My most memorable teaching experience was during the first 6 years of my teaching career, when I was a self-contained kindergarten teacher, and my mom was my teacher’s aide. I loved being able to work with my mom, and the students always thought it was so funny any time I slipped up and called her, "Mom," instead of, "Mrs. Gina" during the day.

I had originally put something different for this question, but I need to change my answer....last night (3/18/2026), my coworker - a fellow teacher, whose son I previously taught, tragically lost everything. Their home, vehicles, and all of their belongings were burned to the ground in a fire. Thankfully, everyone was able to get out unharmed. "Stuff" can be replaced; lives can't. But, when you lose, literally, everything you own, all at once, it's overwhelming. $25K would definitely help them!