Julie Best

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of my 5th grade teacher Mrs. Mairs! She inspired me and I’m so grateful for that! I have always loved working with children and being a teacher was my goal from a young age! It has been so rewarding and getting to do a job I love is such a blessing.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

So hard to choose one. I think one of the most memorable experiences for me is when I see a student I once had and they share how I helped them. I ran into a young lady I had in kindergarten and she was working at a restaurant I went to. She shared with me the impact I had on her in kindergarten! She didn’t speak any English and I taught her how to speak English and gave her confidence. She knew I cared about her and she was grateful. It helped her become a manager. Such a gift to see her.

What would you do with the $25,000?

What a blessing the money would be to help add resources and continue some programs we are doing. One of my favorite activities is hatching chicks. This money would be so helpful with getting better incubators and all the supplies we need! So much could be done!