Lauren Bianco

Tell us why you became a teacher

While volunteering at a community theater in high school, I had the opportunity to teach a young girl how to read. After the show, her mother shared how much that experience had helped her daughter. Hearing that made a lasting impact on me, it was the moment I realized I wanted to dedicate my life to helping more children learn and succeed as a teacher.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was working with a sixth-grade student who underwent a complete transformation in their attitude toward reading. At the start, they disliked school and had no interest in books. Over time, that changed, so much so that they began saying the reason they came to school was to hear the next chapter of Percy Jackson.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were awarded the $25,000, I would dedicate a portion directly to my school, a small special education program with limited resources. The funds would be used to invest in a structured curriculum and improved materials, ensuring we can more effectively support and meet the diverse needs of our students.