Katrina Thompson

I love teaching with kindness and curiosity, creating a space where students feel safe to explore, discover, and truly enjoy learning.

Quarter-Finalist

Currently 2

in the Quarter-Finals

Help me become America's Favorite Teacher, win $25,000, a trip to Hawaii, and appear in Reader's Digest!

Voting for Semi-Finalists ends Thursday the 7th of May at 7PM PDT
Reader's Digest magazine covers

The winning teacher's inspiring story will appear in Reader's Digest, celebrating their remarkable influence on education.

Learn More
Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of my mother. My mother’s life has been defined by service, resilience, and love. She balanced driving a school bus with supporting a blind student, showing me that dedication is found in small, everyday acts. She supported my dreams, from childhood to college, and later earned her master’s in special education. Her example taught me that education is lifelong and that caring for others can change lives.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching moment is our 5th grade “Rock the Test” kickoff. To ease FAST testing stress, we created a rock‑and‑roll theme with music, lightning‑bolt gear, and matching shirts. The surprise guest, my husband dressed as Elvis and performed—he brought the students to their feet. Their excitement, joy, and confidence filled the room and turned testing into a moment they still talk about today.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Winning $25,000 would lift a huge weight off my shoulders by allowing me to finally pay off my student loans. It would feel like a true fresh start — a chance to move forward, and to step into the future I’ve been working toward. It wouldn’t just be financial relief; it would be a moment of hope and possibility after years of doing the work I love.

Planetary Society Planetary Society

Help Katrina Thompson become America’s Favorite Teacher while supporting a great cause! Cast your daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact with a tax-deductible donation benefiting the Planetary Society.


1 Vote
10 Votes
25 Votes
50 Votes
100 Votes
250 Votes
Other Amount

Enter donation - $1 per vote

Powered By Colossal

Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like America's Favorite Teacher, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.

Learn More