Ramel Nealy

Tell us why you became a teacher

Education saved my life. After my father was murdered, my mother raised my sister and me alone, and education became our path to opportunity. Inspired by my mom, a teacher, I love helping students see its value and pushing them to question everything, even multi-step word problems. For over 10 years, I’ve helped students become lifelong learners.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences was when my 7th grade math students achieved 91% proficiency on the state exam in District 12 in the Bronx, where the borough average was about 30%. This included students with IEPs and ELLs. Seeing my students, school, and staff celebrate that success was unforgettable. I had the highest achievement data in the school and was honored with a plaque from my principal.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use a portion to help pay down my student loans, invest in my daughter’s early education and enrichment activities, and begin a tutoring and mentoring program to support young people, especially those growing up without fathers, by providing academic guidance, structure, and positive mentorship.