Jessica Chávez

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became an English teacher to empower students to share their voices. Everyone has a story worth telling, writing, and publishing. Literacy is powerful because stories connect us — reminding us that our experiences matter. I teach to help students find their voice, tell their story, and inspire others.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My first year teaching, I had a student who spent most of class talking and rarely completed her assignments. She was sassy and hard-headed, (just like me) so earning her trust wasn’t easy. I didn’t give up, and I continued to show that I cared about her success. Over time, that persistence paid off. She graduated, and we still keep in touch today.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would spend the $25,000 on high-interest novels and books, as well as classroom supplies for my students—especially those from low-income backgrounds who cannot afford them. I would also invest in programs and materials that inspire joyful learning through hands-on experiences and meaningful engagement. At the secondary level in particular, students benefit from opportunities that lead to those powerful “aha!” moments. High-quality resources can spark their imagination and ignite growth.