Presley Kloac

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to be the safe place I didn’t always have growing up. I know what it feels like to need someone steady in your corner. I wanted my classroom to be somewhere students feel protected, heard, and important. I want them to know they matter and that someone believes in them every single day.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

During my fourth year teaching, I learned while pregnant that my son, Bo, had a fatal birth defect. I continued teaching and showing up for my students through that season. After he passed away shortly after birth, returning to my classroom was one of the hardest moments of my career. That experience shaped me deeply. Being named Teacher of the Year years later felt full circle.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If awarded $25,000, I would develop a Life Skills and Leadership program for grades 3–5 that connects classroom learning to real life. Students would garden, explore agricultural science, practice budgeting and entrepreneurship, and learn practical skills while applying math and literacy in meaningful ways. My goal is to help students grow in confidence, responsibility, and leadership as they prepare for life beyond the classroom.