Cora Lau

2024 "Pass the Torch" Scholarship Finalist

“She would smile at me, and … she would ask me how many weeds I pulled, or how many bunches I made. And this always made me feel really valid.”

In kindergarten, Cora Lau was an independent kid who enjoyed spending time on her own. At recess, she would explore the edges of the playground or pull weeds. But adults often pushed her to play with the other kids, even though she didn’t want to, and this led her to begin feeling that she was different in a bad way. However, her teacher, Ms. Mahelona, made her feel loved exactly as she was and free to be herself. Cora’s desire to help other kids feel that same way inspired her to become a teacher.

Here is Cora's story about Ms. Mahelona, the teacher who inspired her.

Want to hear the stories of the other nine finalists? Visit our 2024 Scholarship Finalists page.

Thinking of applying to this year's program? Learn more on our Teachers Test Prep "Pass the Torch" Teacher Scholarships page.