Tanya Mack

Tell us why you became a teacher

I had many teachers through out being a student. Some that may have been there for the wrong reasons. It was visible to me at a young age who was truly there for the right reasons...the students. I enjoy teaching my content and making sure that students learn, but creating moments, memories, and a safe space is truly where and when the magic happens. Teachers will always have a story of that "one teacher they had". However, I was fortunate in my educational career growing up, to have many.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

To be honest, I have many. I have been teaching 23 years this year, and have been blessed. A recent memorable experience was having a student tattoo a quote that I said in class, and wrote on his paper, on his leg, as a graduation gift to me. He unveiled it at the morning of the high school graduation practice. You truly never understand the difference you are making by listening, having empathy, and showing up for students that need the content and the trusted adult in a safe space.

What would you do with the $25,000?

At this point, I would have no idea what I would do with $25,000. I teach Seniors in a work program setting. There are many things I could do to expand. Hands on training, pay for clinicians and speakers to come in, create a lab space setting, offer scholarships, field trips off campus to explore, offer healthy snacks and interview clothing for students in need. The sky is the limit. It is a great opportunity to build on the senior class and the work program that continue to grow.