William Chadwick

Tell us why you became a teacher

I chose this path to empower the next generation of thinkers and truth-tellers. Language is the ultimate tool for self-advocacy, and I wanted to give my students the keys to unlock their own futures. From LLD to college prep, my mission is to foster an environment where diversity is celebrated, and literacy is a superpower. I teach because I believe that when we give a student the ability to master their words, we give them the ability to change their world.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable experience is with KS, who entered my 10th-grade LLD class reading at a 3rd-grade level. For two years, we worked tirelessly on decoding and scaffolded analysis. Now a junior, he is reading at a 9th-grade level. He recently wrote a four-paragraph analysis of the Frankenstein graphic novel. K.S. found himself in the Creature’s struggle to be understood, using that connection to fuel deep text evidence. Seeing him find his voice and bridge a six-year gap is why I teach.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Winning this would provide meaningful support for both my family and my students. First, I’d invest in my sons’ futures, ensuring they have the educational opportunities I strive to provide in my own classroom. Professionally, I would build a Literacy Hub for my LLD and ERI students—stocking it with high-interest graphic novels. My goal is to bridge the resource gap so more students, like KS, have the tools to finally be understood.