Erin Nielsen

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to be the kind of teacher I needed growing up, someone who sees potential before it’s obvious, listens without judgment, and never gives up. I wanted to create a classroom where students feel safe, challenged, and truly known. Every child deserves an adult who believes in them, pushes them to grow, and reminds them that their voice and future matter.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was receiving dozens of emails from former students after they were assigned to write a letter to a teacher who impacted them. The messages poured in all day, including from students who barely spoke in my class. Reading their words about feeling supported, challenged, and believed in reminded me that even the quiet students are listening, and that the small moments we create in the classroom truly matter.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would first help my daughter by buying her a reliable car. As a single parent, that peace of mind matters. I would also put some money into savings and use the rest to invest in my classroom, creating a safe, welcoming space where every student feels supported and encouraged to lean into challenges and grow.