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 Early Childhood educators.
Beyer Early Childhood Center
Briana Tate
"I would like to thank this teacher because of how much of a good influence she is on the students at her school. All the stories I hear are positive and full of joy!"
— Submitted by Mason Tate
Fairview Early Childhood Center
Ms. Filo
"I want to thank Ms. Filo for being such an amazing teacher. She is always uplifting my daughter and makes sure she feels supported and encouraged every day. It means so much to see a teacher who truly cares about her students.
Ms. Filo creates a positive classroom environment and always finds fun activities that help make learning enjoyable. My daughter comes home with great stories about the things they do in class, and it’s clear she feels happy and confident there.
Thank you, Ms. Filo, for going above and beyond and for making such a positive difference in my daughter’s school experience."
— Submitted by Lesli Roman
Balbina Holder
"Thank you for creating a classroom where every student feels seen, valued, and supported. Your ability to meet each child where they are academically and socially truly makes a difference. The way you embrace visuals and foster an inclusive environment ensures all learners can thrive. Your bright, cheerful spirit and the genuine care you bring each day shine through in everything you do. You teach from the heart, and it shows."
— Submitted by Sarah Meyers
Melissa Ruano
"I want to recognize a teacher who consistently goes above and beyond for their students. They put in extra time and effort to make sure every student understands the material and feels supported. Whether it’s staying after class to help, creating engaging lessons, or simply encouraging students to do their best, their dedication truly makes a difference.
Their passion for teaching shows every day, and it inspires students to work harder and believe in themselves. It’s clear they care not just about grades, but about helping students grow, learn, and succeed.
Thank you for your commitment, patience, and the positive impact you make in the classroom and in students’ lives. My son loves her and can’t wait to go to school every day to see his teacher and classmates!"
— Submitted by Lesli Roman
Mr. Rudy
"Thank you for the care and commitment you show in supporting your students during inclusion time. Your belief in their abilities and the pride you take in their accomplishments truly empower them to succeed. Your patience, kindness, and willingness to step in and help whenever needed make a meaningful difference each day. Your support helps create opportunities for your students to grow and thrive."
— Submitted by Sarah Meyers
Ms. Tanzima
"Thank you for your willingness to learn and grow in order to better support your student. Your effort in using the individual schedule and encouraging greater independence is making a meaningful impact. The kindness, patience, and genuine care you show each day have created such a strong, positive relationship. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, you are truly making a difference."
— Submitted by Sarah Meyers
Nashold Early Childhood Center
CeCe Weightman Tobin
"Thank you Ms. CeCe for your kind help, continuous support, endless patience, and amazing guidance, and for everything else you do to accommodate and include our son in your classroom. Every kid deserves a teacher like you!"
— Submitted by Isadora Banuelos
Summerdale Early Childhood Center
Tasneem Ahmad-Mumtaz
"Ms. Tasneem has been a big part in my autistic granddaughter’s learning experience. She is straight to it, no sugar coating, loving, and firm! My granddaughter has met many goals due to her teacher this year. We celebrate you today, tomorrow, and forever. We appreciate ALL that you do."
— Submitted by Beatrice Walker
Jill Cascio
"My daughter is in Mrs. Jill's class and she loves going to school to see her teacher. I know Mrs. Jill is an incredible teacher, as I watch my daughter play school with her brother, she pretends she is Mrs. Jill and she talks about her teacher all night after school. Thank you Mrs. Jill for encouraging my daughter to love school!"
— Submitted by Stephanie Berg
Denise Gibbons (pictured above)
"This is my son’s second year having her as a preschool teacher. When my son first started school he was almost nonverbal, not potty trained, and wouldn’t eat almost anything. Ms. Denise showed up and showed out. As of now my son can talk and go potty. She can get him to try almost anything. The patience she shows my son is something special. She celebrates his accomplishments. She keeps me informed. She’s definitely a safe person for him and that means EVERYTHING to me! I will forever be thankful for Ms. Denise and the team at Summerdale."
— Submitted by Patricia Sykes
"Mrs. Denise is incredible. Her patience and kindness make a difference in every student every day. She shows love and care to all her students. The impact of her love for each child will never be forgotten. You will always be my favorite."
— Submitted by Beulah Young
Kelli Girardin
"I want to thank Mrs. Kelli for helping my daughter excel in school. My daughter went from not liking school to transferring with Mrs. Kelli. She has been with my daughter for a year and a half of Pre-K and my daughter wakes up in the morning ready to go and learn with her. She is picking up so much with her and learning new things. Every day she comes home ready to tell us the fun things she learned and what she did for the day. Even on the weekends she’s ready to go to school! Thank you for being a great teacher and role model in my daughter's start of school life!"
— Submitted by Brianna Eash