Rebecca Brown

Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

Building strong relationships with my students is the heart of my teaching. I believe children learn best when they feel safe, respected, and valued. I make it a priority to learn about their interests, their families, and their goals. I greet them warmly each morning and let them know I am happy to see them. I listen carefully when they speak and encourage them to share their ideas. When students know that their teacher truly cares about them, they are more willing to work harder & learn

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Being a teacher is one of the most rewarding experiences, especially when working with first graders who are learning how to read. There is nothing quite like watching a child sound out letters, blend them together, and suddenly realize they have just read a word all by themselves. In those moments, their faces light up with pride and excitement. Teaching reading in first grade is about more than phonics and sight words; it is about building confidence and helping children believe in their self.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000 I would put it into my classroom to buy supplies that my students need throughout the school year. I'm at a Title 1, low poverty level school and supplies is something that my students lack from the beginning of the year through the end of the year. I would also like to use the money to upgrade and add more to my morning tubs and STEM bins. My students LOVE these tubs and I need more supplies to make more and replace some that I already have.