Mackenzie Whalen

I love teaching because I get to share my love of science with my students. The best part is when students discover new favorite topics!

Currently 1

in their Group

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

Voting for the TOP 15 ends Thursday the 2nd of April 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

Since I was a little girl, I have always wanted to be a teacher. Throughout my schooling experience, I had teachers who inspired me and made the classroom such an enjoyable place to be that I wanted to be that person for other students in the future. Science has always been my favorite subject in school, hence me becoming a science teacher. Now I get to do my favorite thing and inspire young minds to learn about science in the world around them!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

When my students are engaging in science activities they enjoy, it makes my heart burst and makes up my most memorable classroom experiences! I love seeing their excitement in the classroom. Since I teach 7th and 8th grade students, I often get students from previous years in class again. When they talk about the science they learned before and make connections to activities, I feel like I’m making a difference. I also think connections with the students and seeing them grow is memorable.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the money to continue my education, making myself a better teacher for my students. I would use the money to make my classroom a better space for my students. Students would not have to worry about supplies and materials as I would be able to constantly supply my classroom with everything science! I was told by students I helped make the school a home for my students and I want to continually make my classroom a safe space that students can feel at home in.

Planetary Society Planetary Society

Help Mackenzie Whalen 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