Marilyn Warmerdam

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children from low-income neighborhoods. I have always believed that a child’s zip code should never determine the quality of their education or the opportunities available to them. I felt called to work in communities where students may face additional challenges and to help them see that they have the same right to learn, grow, and succeed as anyone else.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was working with a student who began the year convinced they could not succeed. The student struggled academically and lacked confidence, often shutting down when tasks felt challenging. It was clear that before meaningful academic progress could occur, the student needed to feel supported and capable. I focused on building trust, setting achievable goals and celebrating small successes. Instead of giving up, the student worked through the task to succeed.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If awarded $25,000, I would use the funding to create a structured, sensory-supportive classroom for severely autistic, nonverbal students. The funds would support visual supports, adaptive technology, and individualized learning materials to increase communication and independence. I would also invest in sensory equipment and flexible seating to help students regulate and stay engaged. This investment would directly improve access to communication and reduce challenging behaviors.