Raleigh Teacher's $1M Lottery Win Boosts Retirement

A Raleigh kindergarten teacher's retirement just got a lot more comfortable after winning $1 million in a North Carolina lottery second-chance drawing.

Key Takeaways:

• Robert Vandenberg won the top prize in the $8 Million Money Maker Second Chance drawing
• The longtime educator chose a lump sum payout of $600,000 before taxes
• Two other North Carolina players also won $100,000 prizes in separate drawings

Robert Vandenberg, a kindergarten teacher at Wakefield Elementary School in Raleigh, North Carolina, has hit the jackpot in more ways than one. After dedicating over 30 years to shaping young minds, Vandenberg received a life-changing notification from the North Carolina Education Lottery.

The seasoned educator emerged victorious in the first of four $8 Million Money Maker Second Chance drawings, claiming the $1 million top prize. Vandenberg's entry was one among 979,465 total submissions, highlighting the competitive nature of these popular second-chance opportunities.

Upon learning of his win, Vandenberg expressed his astonishment, stating, "It was a big wow. It was really cool." The timing couldn't have been more fortuitous for the Raleigh resident, who added, "This couldn't have come at a more perfect time."

Faced with the choice between an annuity of $50,000 for 20 years or a lump sum of $600,000, Vandenberg opted for the latter. After required tax withholdings, he took home $430,500 - a substantial boost to his retirement fund.

The win has left Vandenberg and his family elated. "We are ecstatic about this," he shared, hinting at the positive impact this windfall will have on their future plans.

While Vandenberg's story took center stage, the North Carolina Education Lottery also reported that two other players in the state each won $100,000 prizes through different lottery games. These additional wins underscore the variety of opportunities available to lottery enthusiasts in North Carolina.

This heartwarming tale of a dedicated teacher striking it lucky serves as a reminder of the life-changing potential of lottery games. It also highlights the importance of second-chance drawings, which offer players additional opportunities to win even after the initial draw has taken place.

As news of Vandenberg's win spreads, it's likely to spark renewed interest in the North Carolina Education Lottery's offerings, particularly among those dreaming of their own chance at a comfortable retirement.