My inspiration for becoming a teacher: My mom, Stephanie Emanuel. As a teacher, she made learning fun and exciting. She’s still a teacher at a private school in Winter Garden where she teaches middle school.

Education: I graduated from the University of Central Florida (UCF) in 2023 with a BS in Elementary Education and in 2024 with a Master’s in Educational Leadership.

Recognition: Being named Lake County Schools Rookie Teacher of the Year was my biggest honor so far, but I also cherish all the notes and smiles I’ve received from students. What’s also important are those light bulb moments when you find a way to help students who are struggling with a concept and see that moment when they “get it.”

I’d most like to be remembered as: A teacher who makes every child feel seen, safe and excited to learn so school is a place they look forward to going. As someone who’s always advocating for my students and never giving up on them.

Memorable moments in the classroom: This will be the third year I’ve helped my students create a “wax museum” presentation for their parents. The kids dress up as historical figures they’ve researched. It’s been above parents’ expectations. Another fun learning lesson was creating a “Starbooks Book Tasting Event” where students get to “taste” different books by reading small sections. Keeping with the theme, the area is decorated like a café, and students choose books from a “menu.”

Fun fact: My husband and I do lots of DIY projects around the home. We built our whole chicken coop from scratch.

Something I always tell my students: “Once you can read, there’s no stopping you!”

When I’m not working: I love to read and spend time outdoors. I also like all things baking, including trying new recipes and baking bread.

A saying I live by: “Be the teacher you hope your own children will have one day,” which is something my mom always said. 

Photos: Nicole Hamel