Michelle Hollis

Tell us why you became a teacher

I didn’t set out to become a teacher. I started in the corporate world and quickly realized it wasn’t for me. Turns out spreadsheets and I weren’t meant to be. After facing health challenges, I returned to school and discovered my passion for learning and teaching. I grew up in a family of educators but swore I wouldn’t join the “family business”… turns out they were right. Now, I spark curiosity, build confidence, and help students realize they’re capable of more than they ever imagined.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was taking students on a behind the scenes tour of an Apple data center, the home to Siri’s regional servers. This was the first student visit of its kind worldwide. I’ve been lucky enough to take students three different times. It never gets old watching students realize that, "this is where the tech actually lives!” Moments like this turn curiosity into possibility and help students see themselves in future tech careers.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Honestly? I’d take my family on a real vacation. My daughters’ “vacations” have always been sports tournaments, staying with relatives, or trips in our trailer. I would love to give them the experience of exploring somewhere new, relaxing, and just being. Teaching is my passion, but my family is my why. This would this would provide an amazing experience and a chance to create memories we’ve never had the opportunity to make. The rest will be saved, because after all, I am a teacher! :)