Pauline Carter

Tell us why you became a teacher

When I was 5 years old Santa Clause brought me a chalkboard that flipped over to a magnetic board. An extra bonus was a set of magnetic letters and numbers. I started teaching that day - Christmas of 1967. As I grew older my love for children and teaching grew stronger. When I was in High School, I helped to start a Tutoring Club for Inter-City kids in downtown Atlanta. College brought me to Newberry College and I soared through my classes and became a certified teacher in1984. I love teaching.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My favorite memory of teaching is making lasting relationships with my students. I live in a small town in South Carolina. Everywhere you go you run into a friend. I love seeing my former students. My first Kindergarten class is now 46 years old. It gives me great Joy that I have left a great impression on them. It makes me proud to see my former students succeed today.

What would you do with the $25,000?

First, I would like to share some of the money with my school for something special each teacher wants or needs - Most of these things get cut with the budget. Secondly, pay some bills. Unfortunately, two years ago my husband of forty years had a life-altering stoke and now resides in a local nursing facility. Medical bills and the cost of around the clock care is expensive. The prize money would be a miracle.