Introducing the bright and promising recipients of our 2024 New Teacher Scholarships. These educators-in-the-making are leaving an indelible mark on the future of education and Teachers of Tomorrow is honored to play a part in their journey.
Originating from various backgrounds and cities spanning the nation, these passionate individuals eagerly divulge the compelling stories that ignited their desire to become teachers, shedding light on the inspirational sources that have paved their way forward.
In recognition of their dedication, each of these 20 teachers will receive up to $6000 to cover their entire Teachers of Tomorrow program fee, further fueling their journey towards shaping the future of education.
Christina Aggison – Texas
“Children are the future of our nation, and securing longevity starts with the well-being of our youth. I want to be the change I see in the world, and that is why I chose teaching.”
Summer Ross – Florida
“I must thank my past teachers for inspiring me to begin this journey to become a science teacher. Their guidance in fostering positivity and curiosity within me are habits I now want to share in the children that I teach. I am eager to understand and support students’ diverse needs and help them achieve their personal and academic goals.”
Jazmine McClure – Michigan
“What inspired me to choose a career in education was a teacher that I had as a child. Her name was Mrs. Jordan and she was sweet, but firm. She allowed us to be children while making sure we still got what we needed and more! She was such a safe space for me as a child that I knew one day I would be the same for other children.”
Elise Monnerie – Arizona
“I will strive to help students who struggle to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally to work on their weaknesses to hopefully become new-found strengths… My compassion and empathy want all students to feel welcomed and respected at school. No child should be left out, and I want to be a part of that movement.”
Lisa Edwards – Florida
“By creating a learning environment where students feel valued and understood, my goal is to foster a sense of confidence and self-worth. Incorporating adaptive technologies and innovative teaching strategies will further support their learning journey, making education more accessible and engaging.”
Melissa McCann – Indiana
“I will take this responsibility very seriously and work hard to make sure I am meeting the needs of my students as well as the team I am working with at my school. I truly believe that it takes us all working together to make the biggest impact on our students and community.”
Addie Dewey – Indiana
“Building strong relationships with students and their families will be central to my approach, as I believe that education extends beyond the classroom and thrives on involvement. I am a firm believer that my obligation as an educator goes beyond the classroom and pedagogy, but also as a stakeholder in a vital community for many students.”
Italia Gonzales – Texas
“I plan on cultivating a classroom that embodies respect, high-moral values and most importantly a love for learning. In this world, it is so easy to get wrapped up in social media and I want my classroom to be a place where students can disconnect and build themselves to be the future leaders they are destined to become.”
Ade Gee – South Carolina
“Teaching is not just a profession but a way to honor the resilience of my ancestors, connect with my heritage, and inspire future generations. The impact of education extends far beyond the classroom—it shapes minds, builds communities, and creates a brighter future for us all.”
Brenda Tomenga – Texas
“Students who process information differently deserve every opportunity to have as gratifying a life as possible. I aim to collaborate with the school district and community to produce partner programs. Creating employment opportunities for my students once they graduate is one of the main goals I aim to implement once I become a special education teacher. Providing purpose to our children allows them a much more gratifying and enriching life.”
Zachary Scott – Ohio
“I plan to exhaust myself in effort to provide an uplifting and enriching classroom environment for the students that come through my door but also in effort to reach their families and our community. I have developed lessons that fill required standards but also engage the student and the members of their family revolving around establishing and maintaining and healthy lifestyle of activity.”
David Santiago – North Carolina
“I discovered that teaching is not simply about information but taking my place in “the village” to raise our next generation. Parenting is essential, but I believe the influence of my coaches, teachers and pastors was just as much a part of making me who I am as my parents’ was. This gives me a passion for connecting with students and meeting their needs, be it as a sympathetic voice or motivator who drives them to their best performance.”
Rayna Mack – South Carolina
“I believe that students learn best when they feel safe, respected, and valued. By cultivating a classroom culture that celebrates diversity and encourages open dialogue, it is my desire to create a learning environment where all students feel empowered to express themselves and explore their interests.”
Melissa Lafaire – Texas
“More than teaching content I knew that helping them succeed in all the other areas of their lives is far more rewarding…For some children you are the person they rely on for advice and mentorship. They look up to me as a teacher and that always gave me a great responsibility to be professional and caring.”
Mitchell Walters -Michigan
“At the end of the day, I want the opportunity to positively impact the lives of these young adults. I believe this is important, especially as they transition into the next phase of life after high school.”
Blake Steele – Arizona
“My ultimate goal is to make an impact that will last beyond our year in the classroom… I want to be the teacher every student is excited to have a class with and for them to know that I am truly passionate about what I am doing.”
Karen Tumbleson – Nevada
“Encouragement makes all the difference in the world to give children positive feedback about themselves to keep trying until they’ve mastered a challenge. Every child has infinite worth and should be valued and assisted to be as successful as possible.”
Jennifer Stephens – Michigan
“We impact students, families, and our community, generationally. When students feel valued and understood, they are more likely to succeed. We help students achieve what they did not think was possible.”
Olivia Ferguson – North Carolina
“I see it as the opportunity to pass on knowledge, serve as an advocate and to help children become one step closer to achieving their dreams. This is what drives me to pursue my goal, because I have such strong emotion towards helping and nurturing the minds of students.”
Leonard Endsley – Nevada
“I find colossal fulfillment in being an educator of all sorts—whether teaching in the classroom, coaching on the field, or training soldiers. Each role allows me to develop the minds of the next generation, equipping them with the knowledge and enduring skills they need to be successful. I believe that education is not just about conveying information; it’s about influencing individuals who can think critically, adapt to challenges, and contribute positively to their communities.”
