Ruth Tisdoll

Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because it was a calling shaped by my passion for helping students overcome challenges and reach their full potential. From an early age, I was drawn to education, inspired by teachers who made a profound impact on my life. As I grew older, I realized that I wanted to be that person for others, particularly for students who struggle academically or behaviorally. My journey into teaching was fueled by a deep desire to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable teaching experiences involved a student named Jonathan, who struggled with task completion and became easily agitated when working on the computer. At the start of the year, he often shut down when faced with difficult assignments, refusing to engage. I knew that traditional methods weren’t enough, I needed to find an approach that would help him build confidence and persistence. Using a token economy system tailored to his needs.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I were given $25,000, I would invest it in resources and programs that directly benefit students with special needs, particularly those struggling with literacy, task completion, and self-regulation. My priority would be to expand access to specialized literacy programs designed for struggling readers. I would purchase research-based reading interventions, assistive technology, and multisensory learning tools to support students with cognitive disabilities.