Kia Donner

Tell us why you became a teacher

I wanted to make a change in the world. What I discovered is that change happens one student at a time. It happens in quiet conversations, in guided practice, in celebrating small wins, and in refusing to let a child define themselves by limitations. I teach because I believe in transformation. I teach because I believe in potential. I teach because I know that when a child realizes, “I can do this,” it echoes far beyond the classroom. Teaching is not just my profession it is my calling.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I remember one of my students who was struggling deeply with reading. She avoided it whenever she could and carried the quiet frustration of a child who wanted to succeed but did not yet have the tools. Instead of lowering expectations, we returned to the foundation. We worked intentionally on high-frequency words and practiced digraphs daily. We repeated sounds, blended carefully, and celebrated every small step forward. And She got it!!!!!!

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were awarded $25,000, I would use it in ways that directly support my students with autism while also strengthening my growth as an educator. I would begin by purchasing additional sensory supports for my classroom, including flexible seating, calming tools, weighted items, visual schedules, and materials to expand our calming corner. I would also invest in updated technology, including a high-quality computer that would allow me to create individualized visual supports.