Jennifer Ray

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to be a small part of the journey for children and their families. I believe it takes a team to support a child and I wanted to be a part of that. For the kids who needed extra love and attention, I knew I had it in me to be that person. I was not an exceptional student myself, but I knew the difference between teachers who cared about me and who was just there to collect a paycheck. I wanted to be that teacher who cared.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My first 14 years of teaching was at a Title I school. The student population was very diverse…43-50 languages spoken within the school. I learned so much from those students and their families. As a 4th grade teacher, I had a student who was new to the country and he couldn’t keep his shoe laces tied because he was never taught how to tie them. During the family conference, the student and parents both asked me to teach them how to tie his shoes. It was a moment so small, but so important.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’d like to donate some of the money to my school to fund field trip experiences. I’d also like to go on a trip to Australia. It’s been a dream of mine my whole life. I don’t get to travel very often. When I do, it’s within my state and typically in our travel trailer.