Recently, Math for America asked NYC science teacher Lynn Shon and me to co-speak at their annual Fall Function also known as Nerd Prom. It was awkward because the function is held at the Marriott Marquis, close to the Richard Rodgers Theatre. For those unaware, the theatre is home to the original Hamilton musical. Also, I never went to my high school prom. The event is usually a serious affair and I had every intent of changing that dynamic.

It meant that, actually, yes, I was about to sing a Hamilton medley with the help of Ms. Shon.

I was so glad to have Math for America’s support in our new vision for our speech. I especially loved how we got to be our most authentic selves, even when we remixed Lin-Manuel Miranda’s magnum opus.

It was appropriate that the best rendition of the speech was the one we did in front of everyone. We created the speech with the people in front of us in mind.