Jennifer Guerin

Tell us why you became a teacher

Being a teacher has always been my dream job. From ever since I can remember, I played school with my friends and brothers. I feel like it was a part of who I was growing up. I always took care of my brothers, including one that has ASD. Frequently I was told that I was so understanding and patient. My mom always told me that I would end up in Special Education. I never took her seriously until college when I landed a job as a paraprofessional. That was it. Special Education here I come.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience, was when I was working in the sub separate classroom for kids with ASD. It was lunch time, and my job was to work on social cues in order for the student to learn to interact with his peers. As we were going around the table to say hi, without prompting, he looked at me (which in itself was huge), and said "Hi Jenn." It brought me to tears.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Wow, $25,000. Right now, I would donate a good amount to my parents. My dad has been going through cancer treatment for a few years now, and they need the support more than I do. They need some repairs done to their house. So in order to make them more comfortable I would give them a portion. The other portion, I would continue going to school, pay off some bills, take my two girls shopping, the list goes on and on!