Tammy

Tell us why you became a teacher

I dreamed of being a teacher ever since I was a little girl. I took the long route getting here, I started a family young and became an insurance agent. I felt like something was missing, so I went back to school and graduated when I was 40. It was scary starting completely over but it was the best decision I could have made. I love helping and encouraging young students to explore, try tricky things, and learn new things each day. I am passionate about teaching and love going to work each day.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

It’s so hard, because there have been so many. I throw my students a surprise pizza party after state testing, and the look on their faces each year when I transform the classroom into a pizza parlor is the best. I put checkered table cloths on desks, decorations, pizza parlor music on in the background, and have pizza themed language arts, math, and activities all day. It’s one of my favorite days!! I also love the little moments when a student has a victory and I can celebrate it with them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Our school is in desperate need of a new playground. They work so hard in the classroom, and deserve a safe place where they could have fun, play with friends, socialize, and get exercise. This would be a game changer for our school.