We at Learning Ally are thrilled to announce the winner of our Teacher Appreciation Week giveaway contest! Throughout the week, we invited educators and supporters to share their stories and reflections on teaching across Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn. The response was overwhelming, with nearly 500 heartfelt comments from our amazing community.
And the Winner Is…
Congratulations to Julie Weaver, a dedicated teacher from Arkansas, who has won our $50 Amazon gift card!
Julie’s journey into teaching began in childhood, as she shared in her winning response:
“When I was little, I remember playing school with my sister using this reading set called the Sweet Pickles bus. It had little books inside it and I would pretend to be a teacher (just like my mommy) and teach my dolls and stuffed animals 🧸.”
Upon learning about her win, Julie beautifully captured the essence of the teaching profession:
“Teaching is one of the most challenging and rewarding careers you’ll ever choose. I am so thankful that I had so many wonderful teachers who made teaching my dream, too. #mywhywithlearningally”
Inspiring Voices from Our Community
Throughout Teacher Appreciation Week, we were moved by the outpouring of stories and wisdom from educators and supporters across the country. Here are some of the powerful responses we received:
On Teachers Who Sparked a Love of Reading
Evin (@MsP_WV) shared on X:
“My 6th grade reading teacher, Mrs. Smith. We read The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe and I was hooked. She made it so fun and it inspired my love for suspense/thrillers, too! 🖤”
On Teachers Who Shaped Educational Journeys
Amber Turley reflected on Facebook:
“My kindergarten teacher Mrs. Davies made me love school when at first I didn’t want to be there. Years later when I started teaching I worked with her for a couple of years as a full time sub in the same school. She taught me a lot both in school and at the start of my career.”
Advice for New Teachers
From Instagram, @miss_macon offered this wisdom:
“One piece of advice I’d give to new teachers: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’re not weak or a failure for needing support; you’re learning, growing, and navigating one of the most rewarding (and challenging) jobs out there. You don’t have to carry the weight of it all on your own. Teaching is a team effort, and veteran teachers are here to support you, cheer you on, and share what we’ve learned along the way. We’ve all been there and we’ve got your back.”
On the Impact Teachers Hope to Leave
Tara (@TaraKeely93) shared her aspirations on X:
“I want them to have self-confidence and be proud of their growth. I try to praise their accomplishments daily, no matter how little. I also try to instill a lifelong love of learning 🥰”
Inspiring Teachers Everywhere
This Teacher Appreciation Week contest was part of our ongoing commitment to honor the profound impact educators have on their students’ lives. Just as one teacher can shape generations of learners, we at Learning Ally strive to support educators in their vital mission.
We received hundreds of comments across all platforms during this special week—each one a testament to the power and importance of teachers in our society.
Thank you to everyone who participated, and congratulations again to Julie Weaver! Your stories inspire us and remind us why we do what we do.
Join Learning Ally’s Educator Community for more inspiration or follow us on social media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.