Taylor McNally

Tell us why you became a teacher

When I was a kid, I really struggled academically and didn't have confidence in myself. It was like that until my 3rd grade teacher showed me that I could be great one day. When I walked into her classroom everyday she reminded me why I'm special and what it means to be a great person. She changed how I saw myself and changed my attitude toward life. It was her guidance and the mentorship from my mom, who is also a teacher, that made me pursue my career in education.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

About 5 years into teaching, I had a student come back and tell me that I was the only person that had every told them "I love you". This student said that they always felt seen and always knew that they had a purpose not only in my class but also in life. From that day on, I have religiously said I love you every night before they go home. I have always meant it when I said it but I never knew the impact that it had until that student came back and conveyed what it had meant to them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I'd like to go back to school to get my masters in School Administration. I would love to work with a community, the families and staff to help kids, of all walks of life, learn not only how to read, write and do math but also exceed all expectations and become the exceptional humans that they all can be. Many people in my life have opened doors and have provided opportunity for me so I strive everyday to provided those same opportunities for any child that crosses my path.