Melissa F. Cruz
I teach to give kids a voice, change lives, and be someone they can trust, because what we build goes far beyond the classroom.
I teach to give kids a voice, change lives, and be someone they can trust, because what we build goes far beyond the classroom.
Will Melissa F. Cruz appear in Reader's Digest, win a trip to Hawaii, and take home $25,000? Voting resumes on April 27th at 10AM PDT.
The winning teacher's inspiring story will appear in Reader's Digest, celebrating their remarkable influence on education.
Learn MoreMusic has always been my passion. While playing in band, I discovered that helping my classmates learn their music was just as rewarding as playing my own. That joy led me to teaching. Now as a teacher, I hope to inspire students to discover their creativity, find joy in the arts, and believe in their own potential.
Tell us about your most memorable teaching experienceOne of my most memorable moments is watching students I’ve taught for five years grow into confident learners. Even though I only see them once a week, they now take ownership of their learning and build on their musical skills each year. Seeing their confidence and love for music reminds me why I teach—because consistency, encouragement, and passion can truly make a lasting impact.
What would you do with the $25,000?Winning $25,000 would be an incredible blessing. I would pay off personal debt and celebrate with my family and all who have supported my journey as a teacher. I would also invest back into my classroom to create meaningful musical experiences and opportunities for my students to learn, grow, and perform.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like America's Favorite Teacher, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.
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