Jennifer Estevez

Tell us why you became a teacher

After having my daughter at the young age of 15, I developed a passion for teaching her. I have always struggled with reading as a child, so with that, I chose to go to college for Early Childhood Education. It took me several years to earn my AA, BA, & Masters in education, but I finally did it! I focus a lot on developing foundational skills, so that no child is left behind like I was.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I taught students with Emotional Behavioral Disabilities (EBD) for a few years earlier in my career. These students came from very little (if any) support at home. During that time I had grades 1st-5th in one class with me being the only teacher. While there were some days they hated me and tried to become physical, it was those moments of understanding, connection, and growth that really made my day.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would probably use it to pay off my student loans from getting my master's in Curriculum and Instruction. I owe about $24,000.