Madison

Tell us why you became a teacher

I teach in my home district, so I owe so much to the educators who inspired me and are now my coworkers. I became a teacher to be a source of support, stability, and encouragement for students who need it most. I want them to see the brightness and potential in themselves that I see in them and to believe in the future they’re capable of creating.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

At the start of the year, I had a very fragile learner with limited support at home and hesitation toward accommodations. Through consistent encouragement and support, he grew from a first-grade level to the end of second grade in half a year. More importantly, he developed confidence academically, socially, and emotionally. He now enjoys reading, writing, and coming to school each day, which has been incredibly rewarding to witness.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I received $25,000, I would invest in my classroom by purchasing updated supplies, engaging resources, and diverse books for my students. I would also donate a portion to my school district to help reduce school lunch debt for families in need. Beyond school, I would give back to my parents by helping with home renovations and put the remainder toward my student loans to support my future as an educator.