Summer Pearson

Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to positively impact young lives and help our precious children discover more about the world, themselves, and each other with kindness and respect. If a kid didn't have anyone else who saw them, I wanted to genuinely see their potential and strengths while supporting them through their challenges. And of course music is a universal language - I love performing, creating, and teaching my students about music.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I am amazed at the transformative power of music in my classroom. I found an older song that called for peace on earth. I thought it was beautiful but didn't know if my young students would appreciate it. From the first listen, they connected to the lyrics. When I asked them what they felt the song meant, hands flew up, and they shared, some with tears in their eyes, their desire to see an end to violence, an end to war, and adults modeling respect. They were convicted and sang it like angels!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would make our music classroom even more dynamic, ensuring my students provided input. I would also use some of the money to purchase a home for my family and support my kids' college education. I'm a single mom of 2 amazing sons and a really cute fur baby. The extra money would be a blessing to help us find a forever home.