Shelby Dominguez

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe curiosity can change a child’s entire future. Watching students go from “I can’t do this” to “I figured it out!” is the most rewarding feeling. I love creating a classroom where kids feel safe to ask questions, think deeply, and discover they are capable of far more than they imagined. Every day is a chance to spark confidence, wonder, and a lifelong love of learning.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

During a group activity, one student who was usually quiet in my class, started helping their teammates understand a difficult concept. They explained it in their own words, drew diagrams, and encouraged others when they got stuck. Watching that student step into a leadership role and support others was incredibly meaningful and showed the true power of collaborative learning.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would use the funds to connect my students to the incredible STEM opportunities right here in Houston. While our school has a STEM lab, many students have never visited places like NASA or the Texas Medical Center. I would use the funds to provide field experiences, guest speakers, and hands-on projects that show students how science and math are shaping the world in their own city and inspire them to see themselves in those careers.