Samantha Chesnut

Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I love coaching so much. When I was 21, I was hired on to coach at the high school I went to and played softball at. As soon as I started coaching I realized how much I enjoyed being around kids, and seeing that “ah ha” moment click for them. Those “ah ha” moments on the field have always been amazing. However, when you see it in a student when they are learning something they will use for the rest of their life, it’s the most rewarding experience.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was last school year. I have always been a ELA/History teacher. However, due to staffing, there were some cuts, and I was one of the bottom of the seniority list. Luckily, there was one job open, and that was a Choir/AVID job. I’ve always loved AVID (college and career readiness) but I’M NOT a musically gifted person. I applied for the job anyway and got it! Through a lot of hard work and the help of my AMAZING coworkers, I had a very fun, successful year.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would first set up my new classroom. I’m part of a team who is opening a new high school this fall and I’m coming from middle school. Next year will be an expensive classroom year. I also recently found out that I was selected as the head fast-pitch and slow-pitch coach, so I will likely use some of my own money on team stuff. I would use it to pay for my National Boards. I also would use it for my husband and I’s fertility journey. It looks like we may be doing IVF in a few months.