Teacher Appreciation Week on the first Monday through Friday in May honoring those who have dedicated their lives to education. Teachers provide students with the tools and resources they will build upon for the rest of their lives. Not only do they educate, but they also serve as mentors and guide our youth, too.
We asked the community to tell us about their favorite teacher. Today's we're featuring our Special Programs educators.
Conklin Academy
Miriam Pope
"We have had the pleasure of having Ms. Pope in our children's life for three years now. She is always so welcoming and encouraging. She truly sees my girls and encourages them when they need it. They can be themselves with Ms. Pope. She is both of my girls favorite teacher, especially since one is an artist."
-Submitted by Rachel Peterson
Montessori at Marsh
Sarah Olson (pictured above)
"I have several teachers that I love but I will chose just 1 this year. Mrs. Olson brought out the best in my son starting back during remote learning. She brought him out of his shell, made him want to do well and be responsible. .She made him love school again. She was also his in person teacher for the two years following that. My son trusted her and respected her. She was also supportive towards the parents. She understood my son and really helped him grow academically and maturity-wise. We owe her so much! I always felt safe sending my son off to school, knowing that she was there for him. His love of math began with her class. We appreciate Mrs. Olson so much! Thank-you! "
-Submitted by Jennifer Kahler
Blanka Serna
"She invest huge personal effort to teacher our kids above classroom experience."
-Submitted by Rebeca Pozas
Stacey Szczepaniak
"She puts her all into education and every student she's had benefits from her teaching."
-Submitted by Amelia Spires
Jessica Teeman
"Her mentorship was a key to my son success to improve of ESL."
-Submitted by Rebeca Pozas
STEAM Academy at Haskell
Roni Russell
"I want to thank Ms. Russell for showing my son so much love. She navigated through the rough spots, and they both ended up on top. I will always appreciate Ms. Russell for caring and never giving up on my son."
-Submitted by Barbara Clark
Thurgood Marshall Elementary
Abir Hussameldin
"Mrs. H lights up the classroom with her energy and inspires everyone to be their best selves. She is a wonderful teacher who goes above and beyond to teach her students. We always appreciate her hard work and dedication.Thank you Mrs. H for believing in me and guiding me on my journey."
-Submitted by Aayansh Raj
Ashley Schwabero
"You're an amazing teacher. Your patience and support mean everything to me. Thank you for making learning fun and inspiring me to be my best self."
-Submitted by Aayansh Raj
Addie Wilson
"Mrs. Wilson is truly the teacher Kennedy needed this year in 2nd grade. She has a special way of making learning fun, engaging, and meaningful for her students. It is clear how well she knows each child, as she thoughtfully differentiates instruction to meet the needs of gifted learners while also providing the right supports and accommodations for everyone to succeed. Mrs. Wilson has been incredibly supportive not only of Kennedy, but of our family as well - always responsive, collaborative, and solution-focused whenever questions or needs arise. Most importantly, she has nurtured Kennedy's love of learning and helped her grow in confidence both inside and outside of the classroom. We are so grateful for the impact she has made this year!!"
-Submitted by Samantha Flannery
Thurgood Marshall Middle School
Aubrey Barnett
"You go above and beyond, making learning feel like an adventure! Your kindness, encouragement, and passion have helped me grow not just in academics, but in confidence too. Thank you for being a guiding light, pushing me to chase my dreams. Your lessons extend far beyond the classroom. Thank you for teaching me life lessons that I'll carry forever. I'm grateful for your support and inspiration. Thanks for being an amazing teacher!"
-Submitted by Aarav Raj
Ryan Hansas
"He actually tried and helped all students that would let him help. He cared about his students and what he taught."
-Submitted by Cecelia Graves
Carrie Rollins
"You are very kind and supportive !Thank you for creating a classroom where I feel seen, heard, and motivated to learn. I'm so grateful to be your student. Thanks for being an awesome teacher!"
-Submitted by Aarav Raj
Stacy Wallace
"I want to thank Ms.Wallace for everything she has taught me in STEM this year and the previous year. I really appreciate her taking the time to make sure we truly understand the material. She is a very dedicated person when it comes to helping and giving feedback to everyone in class it doesn't go unnoticed she makes a challenging subject that feel accessible and fun."
-Submitted by Avni Gaharwar
Two-Way Language Immersion at Barbour
Norman Gilg
"Although he has not been a teacher to any of my children, our family has the pleasure of interacting with Mr. Gilg each morning during student drop-off. In those brief moments, he consistently demonstrates the kind of positivity, warmth, and enthusiasm that makes a meaningful difference in the school community. Mr. Gilg greets students and parents with genuine kindness and an infectious positive attitude that helps set the tone for a successful day. His energy and charisma create a welcoming environment where students feel encouraged and valued as they begin their day at school. It is clear that Mr. Gilg takes pride in supporting students and families, and his daily interactions reflect a sincere commitment to fostering a positive school culture. I am grateful that our school is privileged to have an amazing educator for all these years and I hope he knows that he is appreciated."
-Submitted by Cristelle Olivares
Miriam Ramirez
"Thank you for everything you do for my son. Your love, your patience. My son loves you!"
-Submitted by Erika Gonzalez