Adam Montoya

Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became an educator because I know in my heart that what I’m doing matters. In my field I have the opportunity to make an impact on my students lives that extend far beyond the walls of a conventional classroom. Seed to table education embodies a sense of child development that can impact generations heading toward a happier and healthier future. Teaching gives me the chance to “pay it forward” by helping students build a healthy relationship with food and the skills to grow their own produce.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

As we get closer to closing out the year long seed to table lesson cycle, students have been able to harvest produce that they planted with their own hands ! The produce they harvest then goes with them into the kitchen classroom where they have been learning to cook healthy recipes with everything they’ve grown. Plant a seed, watch it grow, harvest, cook, and enjoy. To me, these are the most magical and memorable moments, and truly something for my students to be proud of.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Portions of the money would be distributed to local organizations dedicated to fighting child and family hunger in my community. Also toward uplifting areas in need through garden and health food education programs and allocation of resources for food security.