Tell us why you became a teacher

I took the long around to get here. I started as an art major, worked two non consecutive semesters at Disney World on their College Program, and finally settled down in education and haven't looked back. It was the best decision I ever made. I grew up in a family of teachers and didn't know if it was going to be my path until I got to college. Teaching allows to to combine all my great loves - learning, art, leadership. Teaching challenges a person in more ways than one could ever imagine.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had the opportunity to loop with a class from 5th to 6th grade from 2014 - 2016. When that class was in their senior year, I saw one of the students parking lot of the high school after school. They just received the letter they wrote to their future self in 7th grade. He stopped me and read it aloud and part of it said, "Was 6th grade still your favorite school year?" "Was Ms. Malecki still your favorite teachers?" That's the moment I knew I made it. I was officially a memory for a student.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I had $25,000 I would invest in my education, my small business, and my classroom. I went back to school to get a masters degree in special education. Part of the money would be spent to pay the remaining balance of my student loans. I am a small business owner. I would invest a part of the money into my knitting business in order to help my business grow. Lastly, I would invest in my classroom which is my home away from home.