Teresa Smith

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because of my second grade teacher, Mrs. Shaw. She was an angel in my 7 year old eyes. She made learning fun and seemed to love each and every one of her students. I always admired the impact she had on my life and wanted to be a teacher just like her! I graduated and my first job was teaching 2nd grade!!!! I did my very best to be the effective teacher she was to me and all my classmates.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I have so many memories of the 30 years I spent in the classroom. I guess my most memorable was the number of graduations I attended and baby showers, weddings, birthday parties, football games, so many special occasions that my old students invited me to be a part of. Teaching in a small rural town allowed me to see and keep up with so many of the students I taught. And then I got a chance to teach their kids!!!! To say I've been loved and respected is an understatement.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would put the $25000 in a savings account for my 3 young granddaughters education. I want them to go to college and fulfill their dreams, the same opportunity I had as a teenager. I know it won't cover the entire cost for all three to complete college but it sure would help a lot!!!