Nichole Bender

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I have passion to teach. I love being a part of a child’s first experience in education. I am one of the people that first introduces them to school, and I do my very best to make it the best experience possible. I want to instill a love of learning at their young age so they can truly love their time at school. I also think it is extremely important to show them love and compassion every day. It is one of my greatest joys to get a big hug from my students!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was when we were doing a song at the rug, and out of nowhere, a student came up to me and gave me a hug. Then another, and another until almost every student had given me hug. This showed me that I am creating a safe and loving environment at school, and it brought me, and still brings me, so much joy.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to start out by making sure that all of the teachers in our district has everything they need for their classrooms. We only have a small budget to get items for our classrooms, the rest comes out of pocket. I would then like to use the rest of the money to help meet the needs of students in our district. Whether it be food, winter coats or clothes. Anything extra, I would like to set up a fund to help students throughout the year.