Marisa Principato

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to have the ability to make an impact on my students, just like many of my past teachers had! It’s not everyday you have the opportunity to shape little minds into strong, independent, and creative learners!

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

It’s hard to pinpoint your most memorable teaching experience when you are able to create new and exciting memories each year! I spent a year teaching a 12:1:1 self-contained special education class and we had the privilege to participate in a day called, “Buddy Up Olympics!” 5th graders paired up with students with disabilities and engaged in a variety of games and obstacles!! Being able to see my students faces light up and have them be authentically themselves was so incredibly memorable.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I cannot stress that $25,000 is lifechanging in a teacher's world!! I would use the $25,000 to help me purchase my first home! I have two lovely golden retrievers who deserve a fenced in backyard. To support in Kindergarten, I would love to be able to give my students more multi-sensory tools!!