Tyra Cormier

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to be the kind of role model I needed growing up. Through sports and movement, I learned discipline, confidence, and resilience, and I wanted to pass that on to the next generation. Teaching allows me to support students both physically and emotionally while helping them discover their strength and potential.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experiences are seeing students realize they are capable of more than they believed. One moment that stands out is when a student who struggled with confidence completed her fitness goal for the first time. Watching her celebrate showed me that teaching goes beyond physical skills — it’s about helping students believe in themselves and recognize their growth.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 to expand athletic and fitness opportunities for my students. Many of them enter middle school behind in physical development and confidence. The funds would support equipment, fitness programs, and skill-building camps to help close that gap. I would also invest in resources that promote health education and confidence so students can build lifelong healthy habits.