Jo Richard

Tell us why you became a teacher

Teaching found me. I was never a good student so being a teacher never occurred to me. Because of my history with education, I became a teacher for the voiceless or those that don’t typically find success in the education system. I want to build connections and make learning fun and accessible for all. I am here to help others and guide them along their way.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of the most memorable teaching experiences was an independent reading project. At the beginning of the semester when students were able to choose their books, I asked them to get in reading groups based on genre. I used the independent reading books during lessons to teach certain concepts but the all the students were looking forward to the final project which was to design a ceiling tile, based on the themes in each, the connections, and the genre. The outcome was amazing and so memorable

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would give back to the students. Since I work in a title 1 school, many students come to school without school supplies or they are hungry, so I would stock my classroom full of basic school supplies and snacks for them. I would put some money to the side to restock both items when running low. I would also like to buy all students reusable water bottles because they are always asking. I would work with my school social worker to identify those most in need and buy them as much as possible.