Kenzie Schmidt

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher for a few reasons, but the main one is my dad. He taught for 31 years, and I watched the way he coached, encouraged and loved the kids in his class every day. Even today, we will run into former students and they speak about the impact he had on them.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable moments are those that are unscripted and just happen. For persuasive writing, I begin the unit with a court session, dressed up in a judge’s robe, glasses and a gavel. I take away student’s seating for the day & they are tasked with persuading me to give it back. The conversations that occur with details and reasons always surprise me. I’m able to see their creativity and critical thinking skills.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to take my parents to Hawaii. The last time they went was when I was only a few months old. They went with my dad’s parents after losing my dad’s older sister to breast cancer. They said it was the first time after losing her where they were able to really laugh and celebrate her in a positive way. They’ve wanted to go back for years & talked about doing so for their 30th wedding anniversary, but covid hit. I’d love to take them as a thank you for everything they’ve done for me!