Mayra P Schiedow

Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of the woman who sat in my Pre-K classroom years ago. My DHH teacher showed my family and me endless patience and watched me grow every step of the way. She had faith in me long before I knew my own path, seeing a future DHH teacher in me when I was just a child. Today, I’m honored to pay that belief forward to my own students.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable moment as a teacher happened last year, watching a student discover her own independence. For a long time, she leaned on me to guide her through every page, but then came the day she didn't need my help anymore. Seeing her eyes light up as she understood the storytelling on her own moved my heart. Watching that bridge from 'dependent' to 'reader' is exactly why I do this, and I can't wait to see her continue to master new words and stories.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I had $25,000, I would invest every dollar directly into my classroom. My DHH preschool students deserve a learning environment equipped with high-quality, specialized furniture and sensory-rich toys that support their unique developmental needs. Currently, I’m limited by what I can personally afford, but this funding would allow me to provide the hands-on, tactile activities they need to truly engage and thrive. It’s about giving them the world-class start they deserve.