Julia Eilers

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I had teachers who believed in me. School gave me tools to find success. I grew up without a traditional family, and school/teachers were my community and, at times, my family in many ways. My mother was Schizophrenic and my father was absent. I was raised by the system, my grandmother, then my aunts. I want to show students they can achieve anything they put their minds to; I overcame adversity and so can you.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

When a student from Ukraine arrived in my class seeking asylum, she faced cultural barriers and significant needs related to Autism. I created structured supports, sensory accommodations, and advocated for her IEP services to ensure her needs were met. Beyond academics, I became a safe, trusted person for her and her family, helping them navigate a new culture. Watching her grow in confidence and find her voice remains one of my most meaningful teaching experiences.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would expand accessible Career and Technical Education in my district by developing inclusive, hands-on pathways and work-based learning programs with built-in supports. Funds would provide job coaching, transportation solutions, adaptive tools, and employer partnerships to ensure students with disabilities can safely access real-world training and graduate career-ready with meaningful opportunities.