Janet O'Connell

Tell us why you became a teacher

I wanted to be me a teacher because of my wonderful Latin teacher in high school. I also decided to major in Latin and I did become a Latin teacher! Later, I received my Master's in Guidance and Counseling and also became a high school Guidance Counselor. I helped thousands of students and parents in the city of Coral Springs, FL with their college and/or vocational school choices. I also presented career opportunities in classroom visitations and also to my assigned students in my case load!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I truly loved teaching Latin and had several students achieve scholarships through their study of Latin. I also had an At-risk student whom I prevented from dropping out by appealing to the Superintendent for a special Forgiveness program to raise his GPA to above 1.5 minimum. My student achieved this and graduated with a Regular High School Diploma, instead of a GED! He later became a very successful contractor-builder!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I do need to replace my old car with another "decent used" one! I also would love to go to Hawaii which is my last goal before I am not medically able. Thank you so much for this opportunity!