Sunkanmi Ayorinde

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of young people. Growing up, I had educators who inspired and supported me, and I wanted to pay it forward. I believe that education has the power to transform lives and communities. As a teacher, I strive to create a learning environment that is engaging, inclusive, and challenging. I want my students to feel seen, heard, and valued. I'm passionate about helping them discover their strengths.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience was with an emergent bilingual student who faced significant challenges speaking English. Despite these obstacles, she showed remarkable determination to learn and participate in class. What made this experience truly unforgettable was when she returned to my classroom, beaming with pride, to share that she had made tremendous progress in speaking English. Although not yet fluent, she could now confidently communicate people

What would you do with the $25,000?

Most of the funds would be spent for student support services, such as tutoring programs, counseling, or basic needs assistance, ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed. Also, would invest in educational technology, such as laptops, tablets, or interactive whiteboards, to enhance student learning and engagement. This would enable me to integrate innovative teaching methods and provide students with essential digital skills.