Melissa De Goes

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to make a real difference in students’ lives and help them see their potential. I love helping young people build confidence and learn skills they can truly use. I also want to make education as applicable as possible, so students can connect what they learn in the classroom to real life, their future careers, and everyday decision-making.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Some of my most memorable teaching experiences have been when students trusted me enough to share their business ideas and ask for my opinion. I love that they feel comfortable bringing me their dreams and future goals. It means so much to know they feel supported, cared for, and inspired to apply what they learn in class to their own lives. Moments like that remind me why practical, meaningful education matters so much to me.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 to improve my classroom and create more opportunities for my students. I’d invest in furniture to make the space more comfortable and functional, purchase a strong curriculum for my Introduction to Business classes, and buy licenses for tools that make learning more interactive. My goal is to make education more practical, engaging, and accessible so students can better connect classroom learning to real life.