Hardev Thiara

Tell us why you became a teacher

In grade 9. I volunteered to teach elementary students how to use computers. I loved it and was hooked. At my school, we were taught science without lab activities. I vowed to change this, if I became a teacher. In.my classes, we do 40 labs per year. I love how the kids get ex item on lab days. Scientific literacy and truth are both very important to me.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Every lesson needs to have a hook. I use story telling, videos, projects and lab activities to keep students engaged. One of my favorites is doing chemistry magic demos at the start of the unit to get students thinking about why things happen. I also love the static generator lesson that culminates with the human shock chain.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I could use the money to upgrade our lab facilities. Money is tight in schools right now. And our labs haven't had any upgrades in the last 25 years. The best part of the contest is seeing Bill again, and having him talk at our school. I met him in Vegas at a conference. It was a huge moment, and would love for students to see him.in person.