Kelsey Malen

Tell us why you became a teacher

I chose to become a teacher because the educators in my life provided me incredible support during challenging times. Their dedication to me helped create a sense of safety &stability which inspired me. While I didn't have the opportunity to play sports growing up, I often found myself pretending to be a teacher in the neighborhood I lived in. As I got older my passion continued to grow &I wanted to do the same for other children especially those in a title 1 school as I can connect with them.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Truthfully it's hard to pick just one moment as education as a whole is filled with nothing but memorable moments, especially in second grade. My most recent moment is when our school was announced to be 1 out of 53 schools in Arizona to receive the A+ School of Excellence Award. I was able to be with my group of second grade students and when the announcement came on we all jumped and cheered with joy. Our staff and students have worked so hard to be where we are at today and I am SO proud!!!

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I was blessed with the opportunity to win $25,000 I would use this money to help purchase a home for the first time. As an educator, finances are tight and it has been hard to be able to save to purchase a home. Growing up I was in and out of homelessness and it has always been a lifelong dream of mine to be able to own my own home one day. Being able to accomplish this goal would be everything and more to me and my future family.