Julie Karre

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I believe in youth leadership, which is grounded in the ability to make connections, build insight, and comprehend the complexities of the world around us and its historical context. The best experiences I had in school were with teachers who didn't look at me and treat me as a child who needed to learn facts, but as a person who was expected to lead. I became a teacher because I expect the next generation of leaders to be outstanding.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

In the last few years I switched from teaching language arts to social studies, which is in line with my passion for teaching throughlines - the connections between historical and current circumstances and the connections between history and fiction. Two years ago a student who goes by Vee produced an analytical essay connecting the Fall of the Roman Empire, and the rise of the Catholic Church across Europe, the Crusades to current instances of Islamophobia in real life and works of fiction.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would give my classroom a makeover - new bookshelves and books, more physical resources like the NatGeo Encyclopedia of American Indian History & Culture. I would add in a set of really nice computers for my room that are networked to a high quality color printer. I would buy all of the little things that actually make an enormous difference. We are entering an era where every act of learning, every moment students "get it" is an act of rebellion against their disenfranchisement.