Cyrena Thrower: I love teaching because making an impact on even one child can make a difference in all of our futures
You can help Palm Bay teacher Cyrena Thrower become America’s Favorite Teacher while supporting a great cause by casting your vote HERE. This competition highlights educators across the country, and the winning teacher receives national recognition in Reader’s Digest.
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – You can help Palm Bay teacher Cyrena Thrower become America’s Favorite Teacher while supporting a great cause by casting your vote HERE.
This competition highlights educators across the country, and the winning teacher receives national recognition in Reader’s Digest.
“I’ve always known I wanted to make a difference in my community—when I was younger, I dreamed of impacting the world,” said Thrower.
“As I grew older, my goals became more focused, starting with Brevard County. I once thought I’d do this through journalism, sharing facts and positivity. But life led me to teaching, and it quickly became a true passion. I stayed because I saw the impact, built real connections, and found purpose in helping students grow.”
Thrower said one of her most meaningful experiences was teaching a student with Down syndrome.
“It was not easy, and progress came one accomplishment at a time,” said Thrower.
“This year, our greatest success was growth in behavior and self‑regulation. Through patience, persistence, and high expectations, I learned that meaningful change doesn’t have to be immediate to be powerful and life-changing. I would use the $25,000 to pursue a master’s degree in educational leadership, allowing me to expand my impact beyond the classroom.”
The Wildcard Round is especially important because it determines which teachers advance to the Quarterfinals. CAST YOUR VOTE HERE.
