Nicole Newkirk

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I’ve always loved working with children. With a condition that meant I might never have a child of my own, teaching gave me something deeper—a chance to pour into many kids, watch them grow, and feel like I had a family in my classroom. My students became “my kids,” and teaching became the place where my purpose and my heart finally met.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable moments was with a student with autism who sat beside me every single day. He rarely spoke at first, but over time he let me into his world. Years later, he still comes back to see me, smiling shyly as he thanks me for believing in him in a way others never had. His gratitude reminds me why the connections we build matter so deeply. This is just one story of many.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would focus on strengthening my family’s future by paying down debt, building financial stability, and creating room to get ahead. This support would allow us to breathe a little easier, plan with confidence, and continue working toward long‑term security and opportunity.