Jennifer Torri

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to help students grow up to be life long learners! I want to help students learn and I teach standards! However, I want students to take what they learn in my classroom to find their own passions and learn about areas of interest on their own! I want to provide the tools for all learners to excel once they leave my classroom. They may not have all the answers but they will have the tools to find the information to help themselves learn.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Every April, our read aloud for the month is The Boy Called Bat. The main character is autistic. One year while I was reading the book, a student raised their hand. The student asked if they could share something personal with the class. They stood up and announced their neurodivergence proudly. The class rallied behind the student in such a positive way. This led to another student raising their hand and announcing their different neurodivergence. They felt safe enough to be vulnerable.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 in a variety of ways! I want to get my masters degree in special education. I have wanted to go back to school for many years. After all, I am still a learner myself! I would also use the money to fund my classroom transformation projects! I love to find ways to increase engagement! My favorite way to do that is with classroom transformations! Any left over money would go to my classroom library! I love books!