Jessica Riegert

Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

A million reasons, I always loved school. It was a place I could be a kid, be challenged with support, explore the world around me, and all the connections. I became a teacher because I loved the environment and education gave me so much. Education is what I want to pay forward. Every day I get to facilitate the day. I get to be excited, make connections, play, and empower my students. Everyday you get to participate in a group effort to explore and learn. Every day is new.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Teaching is never predictable and I have so many memorable moments. The thread is when students or their adults share a conversation/experience they had that started because of something we covered in class. Teachers always say that learning doesn't stop at our doorways. But to hear it and see their excitement is amazing. Teaching for me is the look in a student's eyes when it "clicks", they understand and they can't wait to apply it. My memorable teaching moments are the lights in student eyes.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Easy! Spend it on experiences with my 4yo nephew and his mom (my sister). Money comes and goes, but experiences shape us and stay with us. I would take them to National Parks, landmarks, museums, historical sites, anything to give him a chance to look and wonder at the world around him. Eyes and ears open.