Rachel Barnard

Tell us why you became a teacher

Core memories are made in school, and there are teachers we remember - the ones that made us feel like we mattered, never gave up on us, listened, and cared. Then, there are the ones that made us feel not so great. The ones that didn't understand, weren't invested, didn't offer grace when we needed it, or didn't hear us. I became a teacher because I wanted to provide a core memory of someone who made students feel like they mattered, because they do.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I love when former students return for visits. One day in particular, a young man that I had taught in 5th grade, and who had definitely given me a run for my money, returned, in uniform, to let me know that he had not only graduated early, but had also joined the Army. He came by to thank me for not giving up on him, and believing in him when others didn't. Every teaching moment matters. Every interaction matters, and I'm thankful he returned to remind me why I do what I do.

What would you do with the $25,000?

There are several items on my amazon wish list I would buy for my classroom. I would pay off my student loans and use the rest to get my Master's Degree and further my education. If there was anything left over, I would do something to spend time with my family. They sacrifice so much while I invest most of my time and energy into my classroom.