Sherise Thomas

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I know it’s what God called me to do. I want to positively impact a child’s life! I let them know that no matter their financial or social background, that they should never give up on their dreams! I always want to encourage children and let them know that they can accomplish anything and they are worthy! Children are our future! I want to play a role in the lives of our future teachers, leaders, parents, and world!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I have so many memorable teaching experiences, but one memory in particular stands out. I had a student during my 3rd year of teaching and she was very quiet and knew very little English. She would always say she wanted to be a teacher like me so she can help kids learn English. Fast forward 20 years, we were both in attendance at a teacher’s conference! She told me that I was the reason she became a teacher! That was a very memorable moment!

What would you do with the $25,000?

When I receive the $25,000, I would put it back into my students, the classroom and the community. I teach in a Title I school and many of the families are surviving off of very minimal income. I would use the money to buy books and necessary supplies that more often the parents cannot afford to replenish on a monthly basis. I would also use it to buy shoes, clothes, jackets and food because these things are important for students to be able to learn and flourish!