I am the legend of Phoenix Academy. Students call me Mr. GOAT because I have been at this school longer than anybody. They call me Mr. Rich!
Help me become America's Favorite Teacher, win $25,000, a trip to Hawaii, and appear in Reader's Digest!
The winning teacher's inspiring story will appear in Reader's Digest, celebrating their remarkable influence on education.
Learn MoreI was a superstar student in high school and college. I loved being a student, and have had some amazing teachers. My high school science teacher was my inspiration to become a science teacher. Now that I have been teaching for 32 years, I am grateful to have had an impact on thousands of students. It has been an incredible run, and I am thankful for all of it.
Tell us about your most memorable teaching experienceI exploded an ostrich egg as a science lab. All the students had to hide in the back of the room while I filled the egg with hydrogen gas. When I ignited the gas, the ostrich egg exploded like a grenade. Fortunately the plastic shield I had placed around the sides of the egg was effective in stopping the shrapnel, but some egg pieces shot upwards into the ceiling tiles, leaving etched marks that are still there!
What would you do with the $25,000?I would start a foundation that gives away science fair display boards to schools who apply for them. Providing science fair display boards is my passion! Imagine how many students will complete a science fair project if their school can provide free science fair display boards
Help Michael Richardson become America’s Favorite Teacher while supporting a great cause! Cast your daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact with a tax-deductible donation benefiting the Planetary Society.
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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