Courtney Westfall

Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I call myself an “accidental teacher.” I started working an hourly position at my kids’ school so we could have the same schedule. I fell in love with teaching and pursued alternative certification to become a classroom teacher at age 40 and never looked back! Theologian Frederick Buechner said “your vocation in life is where your greatest joy meets the world's greatest need” and I have found such meaning, fulfillment and joy in teaching.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Kindergarten birthdays are a BIG DEAL and most parents come up to celebrate their child or at least send treats for snack time. I have a student whose home life is very unstable. No one from home acknowledged his birthday so I ran to the store on my planning period and got treats. I asked him what we should do to celebrate and he said, “Will you sing the “Dear [my name] Song?” I got to be the first person to sing the “Happy Birthday” song to this precious child and show him how special he is.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the money for some home updates and repairs we’ve been dreaming about (new carpet, new window trim, paint). Any money leftover would go into saving for a new car when my 11 year old car kicks the bucket!