Shanna Deaton

Tell us why you became a teacher

When I was younger, I knew I wanted to become a teacher. I played school even before I entered a classroom. Once in school, I was always the teacher's helper. Before summer break, I asked for all the extra copies of resources to play school all summer. I became a parent and I knew I wanted the same schedule as my children. If I had to be away from my own children, I wanted to be making a difference. I also wanted to be the teacher I needed when I struggled.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Every single day is so dynamic in a classroom. Every hour is completely unique from the previous. However, one memory that always sticks out is having a drop out prevention student who struggled with attendance, behavior, reading on grade level earn a 3 (grade level) on writing an essay on a county assessment. The pride he had that day carried through the years. He was successful and had a positive experience. He eventually became an incredib teacher, and kept me updated every step of the way.

What would you do with the $25,000?

First, I would take my children on a vacation. They have had to share me with approximately 1,8000 students thus far. My time and my energy most definitely goes into my students. My own children get the rest of me, which isn't a whole lot at the end of the day. They deserve so much more, but I think a great vacation together would be the start. Then, I would use the rest to pay down the credit card debt I've accrued being on a public school teacher salary and a single parent.