Vanessa Trinidad

Tell us why you became a teacher

As Nelson Mandela once said, “education is the most powerful weapon that you can use to change the world”. I became a teacher because I am passionate about helping the next generation acquire the tools they need to be successful and positively contribute to a global society. As a first generation Latina who grew up in attended urban public schools, I realized that not every student has access to the best quality of education and it became my mission to return to teach in communities like my own.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience has been watching my students become passionate about the sciences. After starting an annual science fair and engineering club at our school, my students have taken it upon themselves to continue exploring and applying their scientific discoveries to improve our school community by starting a composting program and an urban garden. It’s been amazing to watch them take ownership of their learning and use it all to help others. It’s made me so proud of them!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I have spent quite a few years furthering my education to become a better educator and build my toolkit to improve the educational landscape in our country. After obtaining a Master’s degree in education policy and a Master’s degree in educational leadership, I would likely use the majority of the money to help pay off my student loans.