Michelle Simmons

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of young people. I believe education has the power to open doors, build confidence, and shape futures. Teaching allows me to inspire students not only academically, but also personally, helping them discover their strengths and believe in themselves. Knowing that I can support, guide, and encourage students as they grow makes this career meaningful to me.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable moments as a teacher was walking into my office on my birthday and seeing the walls covered in handwritten notes from my students. Each note was filled with words of encouragement, gratitude, and affirmation that reminded me why I chose this profession. In that moment, I realized that the lessons we share go far beyond academics—they build relationships, confidence, and lasting impact. It was a powerful reminder that the work I do truly matters.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000 for my school, I would use the funds to supply our robotics team with all the accessories and equipment they need to succeed. This would include updated tools, competition kits, programming resources, and materials that allow students to build, test, and innovate without limitations. Investing in our robotics team would not only strengthen their technical skills, but also encourage creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving for future competitions and careers.