Irene Gardea

Tell us why you became a teacher

I went into teaching for all the wrong reasons. I wanted to go into teaching so that I could coach a speech and debate team and create student champions. Needless to say, this was the wrong approach. Students do not need trophies, they need an education that opens-up opportunities for them. After 16 years in the game, I have learned that working with students and seeing them develop skills that are beneficial for their futures is more valuable than any trophy we could ever win.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

After 16 years in education, there are too many experiences to name! But the best representation of those great memories would be the over 200 rubber ducks that are displayed in my classroom. What started with 5 ducks to decorate my first-year teacher classroom, evolved into a prized collection of ducks from around the globe that students have brought me over the years. Each one has a story of success or adventure and serves as a memory of all the students who have learned in my classroom.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I am a teacher to my core! Therefore, I can honestly say that the money would go into my savings. I coach my campus’ debate team and run our program for future teachers. Those programs hit my bank account heavily with birthday pizzas and class art supplies. These are costs almost all teachers are willing to pay, but it does make budget planning difficult. So, the honest answer is: I’d take my mom out for a nice dinner, and save the rest to continue celebrating and supporting my students.