Lavinia Guseth

Tell us why you became a teacher

My daughter struggled through school with high-functioning Autism, and it made me realize how much teachers do (besides teaching). I wanted to be part of that community…the people who give back in so many ways. We teach the future of America, as well as love them and teach them to be good citizens.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

A student who scored low on all state testing K-2 came to my 3rd grade classroom very shy. He wouldn’t raise his hand to answer any questions. If I called on him he would start to cry. He thought he was “stupid” and didn’t want the kids to see him struggle. I worked with him 2 times per week after school. As the year progressed and he became more confident, he started answering questions and even going to the board. Seeing him flourish was amazing. His mom came to me crying with tears of joy.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I am a single mom working as a full time teacher as well as having a part time job after school on Fridays. This money would go a long way in helping to pay bills. But, like most teachers, I would also plan next years classroom decor as well as making sure my classroom is well stocked with pencils, erasers, notebooks and glue sticks.