Whitley Amrhein

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe every student deserves to have that one person in their corner that they know will never give up on them. Unfortunately, that’s not always a parent or a family member with the population I teach, so I want to be that for them. I want to be that cheerleader for them to cheer them on and show them they can do anything they set their mind to if they just try and believe it can happen!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching moments was when a student from my very first year of teaching sent me an invitation to her high school graduation. I taught her in 3rd grade and she said I remained her favorite teacher all throughout the rest of her school years. She even invited me to take a few of her senior pictures with her. It was such a special and full circle moment and reminded me why I went into the profession to begin with!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would probably use it to put a down payment on a house for me and my family. We currently rent a townhouse which has become too small for our growing family. My husband stays home with our daughters, so my teaching income is our only source. That being said, it has been impossible to save for a house with us living paycheck to paycheck. I would love to buy our first house and give my girls the home and backyard they deserve!