Kristen shepherd

I love teaching because of the connections I make not just with the students in my classroom, but with students throughout the entire school

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

Voting for the TOP 20 ends Thursday the 26th of March at 7PM PDT
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The winning teacher's inspiring story will appear in Reader's Digest, celebrating their remarkable influence on education.

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Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to make a lasting impact on students’ lives, just as my teachers did for me. From kindergarten teacher to now a third-grade teacher, I strive to be a mentor, role model, and motivator. I want my students to feel valued, build confidence, and love learning. My goal is to remind every child that they can achieve anything, believe in themselves, and never give up on their dreams.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My teaching journey as a beginner has been full of challenges that have shaped me into who I am today. After being moved to another school due to low enrollment, I felt overwhelmed and wanted to give up. But seeing my students look up to me reminded me to keep going. I returned to my original school and to my classroom. This experience taught me that challenges build strength, and giving up is never an option.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would invest it back into my classroom and school. As a Title I teacher, I see students come without basic supplies, so I would fully stock our supply closet and expand hands-on science materials. I would also create a free school store with clothes, food, and essentials so students feel supported, confident, and ready to learn without worry.

Planetary Society Planetary Society

Help Kristen Shepherd 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.

Limited-time: 2X donation votes ends on Tue 3/24 at 9PM PDT


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