Tiffany Santiago

I have always had a genuine care for children and their well-being. I am looking forward to expounding upon this love when I enter the classroom.
My life has not always been the best. In life, I have had some challenging life experiences. As a child being born with a kidney developmental issue I spent a majority of my time in and out the hospital. Later in my adult years, I had to have the kidney removed due to renal failure. I’ve had ups and downs going through this process, but I pushed forward in my goal of one day being a teacher. Being told by my doctor that I would never have children and to finally have one but only to lose him three days later only grew my love for children even stronger.
It gives me great comfort knowing that even though I lost my child, I will have a classroom full of children that I can nourish, grow, and care for like my own to ensure they are well prepared for what lies ahead for in their futures. Not only will I have the title of being an educator but a title to be a caregiver, counselor, and doctor. Teachers must be able to adapt to each and every child we encounter and teach with a warm and loving heart. Going through life’s challenges, I have learned to adapt and overcome financial challenges as well as physical challenges. It has been financially hard for me paying medical bills and school tuition. This scholarship would be greatly appreciated if I was chosen as the recipient. I spend my extra time volunteering at my local church by participating in the media department, teaching Sunday school and volunteering in the afterschool program in my community. I am also employed as a Substitute teacher for Onslow County Schools.
Teaching brings joy to my life and an indescribable joy to my heart. I cannot help but wonder what it would have been like for my son to have experienced my passion for education and how it would have impacted his life. Teaching must indeed come from within the heart. I have a love and passion for teaching regardless if it’s at my church, my local afterschool program, or within a school system. I truly have the passion for being a great teacher.