Jenny Brandt

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I always loved school. My elementary teachers made learning joyful, but it was my sixth grade teacher, Mr. Frye, who truly inspired me. He made lessons fun, creative, and exciting. We were always engaged and laughing while learning. I still remember so many of those activities today. I wanted to give my students that same experience and create a classroom where they love coming to school and look back and say, I loved being there!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching moments happen when a student is struggling and then suddenly gets the “I have it” look when everything clicks. That spark of understanding is unforgettable. Watching their confidence grow and their excitement build reminds me why I teach and how powerful those small breakthrough moments truly are. Our classroom becomes a tight community where we celebrate growth, support one another, and learn side by side.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would use it to pay off the remaining student loans from earning my Master’s degree. Investing in my education has strengthened my teaching, and relieving that debt would be a gift to my family. I would then place the remaining funds into college savings accounts for my four children, helping support their future goals and opening doors to opportunities for each of them.