Kristin Daley Conti

Tell us why you became a teacher

I never planned to be a teacher. I graduated with a degree in biology. While searching for the right job, I joined the Massachusetts Audubon Society and became a part time natural history guide. There, I met a person, who would become a mentor and taught me how much fun it is to teach and learn science. I became a substitute teacher in various grades, just to make ends meet, but I fell in love with middle school science.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was becoming the co-founder/co-advisor of a student-led club called the Chestnut Project. Students became leaders in a real-world science project, restoring American Chestnut trees to the ecosystem. This project is the most rewarding thing that I have ever been a part of.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I had $25,000, you'd see me traveling around the country to National Parks. I've been to several, including Zion National Park, but the bucket-list is long and beautiful!