Sherri Volanti

Tell us why you became a teacher

Since I knew what I wanted to be from a very young age, I never even considered doing anything else. I am also an athlete who is passionate about sports, so I get to combine two loves, coaching and teaching. I love watching people learn new things. The amazement, the understanding, the light in their eyes. Education really is the key to anyone's future, and I love being a part of someone's journey.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One year while teaching 6th grade math and science, our entire grade level agreed to do an integrated unit on the Titanic. It was the 100 year anniversary, so it was relevant around society. I am a huge fanatic about Titanic, and I absolutely loved setting up the year long lessons and activities for every class. We did so much with it, it was my favorite year of teaching ever.

What would you do with the $25,000?

There are so many things I could do with $25,000! I work at an urban school where students are not exposed to many experiences. I would form a field trip crew to take students on excursions where they get to see more of the world. Many have never left Ohio, and there are any things here in Ohio to see as well. Niagara Falls is my favorite place, and I would take my students. Its 3 hours away, but most have never been. I would use the money to show students that there is much more to learn and se