Mary Snow

Tell us why you became a teacher

I was adopted as well as 8 other children. My parents had one biological child and 9 other adopted children. We were all from various diverse backgrounds and had different needs. Seeing some of my siblings struggle with not having their academic needs met, made me want to become a special educator. I didn't want any child to have to go through what some of my siblings did, as well as to make every child feel like they could succeed and are important.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

In the beginning of my career I taught in a self contained behavior disorder room. We were like a family. I had a teachers assistant, an educational specialist and a class of 10 kids. One year we had a Christmas tree and we all bought gifts for the kids. We listened to Christmas music and opened gifts together. They were so happy. I still talk to some of the kids and my co-teachers who are both no longer in the district. They will always hold a special place in my heart. That was 23 years ago!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to find a way to help some of my past students find a job and permanent shelter and support. I have one student who is homeless and has no support. I wish I had a way to help him get his life in order so he does not have to worry about being cold or hungry. Everyone deserves a chance to restart. They should not have to worry about their basic needs so they can come to school and focus on their academic needs instead of their social emotional and physical needs.