Sarah Hernandez

2021 "Pass the Torch" Scholarship Finalist

“The thing was that he actually cared. He cared about our wellbeing and our happiness, and that made a huge difference – to go to school every day and know that there was somewhere that we all belonged.”

Two years of bullying had taken their toll on Sarah Hernandez, changing her from an enthusiastic honors student to one who was just scraping through. Transferring schools in the hope of a fresh start, Sarah was nonetheless feeling dejected and pessimistic about the future. This all changed when she set foot in choir and drama teacher Mr. Churchill’s class. A warm and effervescent presence, Mr. Churchill created an environment where all students were both challenged and felt safe. Today, Sarah aspires to value and support each of her future students, just as Mr. Churchill did.

Here is Sarah's story about Mr. Churchill, the teacher who inspired her.

Want to hear the stories of the other nine finalists? Visit our 2021 Scholarship Finalists page.

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