For Ellen Miller, teaching has never been just a job. It’s been a calling she’s carried since childhood.

“I have wanted to be an elementary school teacher since I was in the second grade,” Ellen says.

She still vividly remembers the moment that shaped her future. As a young student, she was terrified to be away from her family. But everything changed when her second-grade teacher greeted her with warmth and kindness.

“In that simple moment, my fear began to fade,” Ellen says.

That experience left a lasting impression, inspiring her to become the kind of teacher who creates a safe, welcoming environment for every child.

“I want my students to feel what she helped me feel: loved, valued, and safe,” she says.

Now in her 24th year in education, 22 of those spent teaching third grade, Ellen has built a classroom centered on connection, creativity and joy. Much of her career has been rooted at Fruitland Park Elementary, where she spent more than two decades in the same classroom, a space she describes as her home away from home.

After stepping away briefly to serve as a content area coach, Ellen realized her passion remained with students. Returning to the classroom, she says, reaffirmed her purpose.

“Being back with students each day has reminded me why I chose this profession in the first place,” she says.

Ellen chose third grade intentionally, drawn to the unique stage of development her students are in.

“Third graders are at such a fun stage of childhood,” she says. “They still enjoy the creativity, laughter, and energy of the younger grades, but they are also beginning to grow into more independent learners.”

Her classroom reflects that balance. Each year, Ellen designs a new theme to create an engaging and welcoming environment. This year’s theme, “Our Class is in Full Bloom,” ties together lessons, activities and the overall atmosphere of the room.

Music and storytelling play a central role in how she teaches. Ellen incorporates songs, chants and movement into daily lessons, helping students connect to concepts in a way that is both memorable and meaningful.

“I have written countless songs and chants for everything from math concepts and cause and effect to pep rally cheers,” she says.

Her approach is rooted in her own experiences as a learner. She says music helped her retain information growing up, and she now uses that same strategy to help her students succeed.

“Adding stories, movement, and music creates a ‘learning anchor’ in the brain that makes the education stick,” she says.

Beyond academics, Ellen focuses on building confidence and creating a sense of belonging. Each morning, her students begin the day with a chant: “I am good. I am smart. I am loved.” It’s a message she hopes will stay with them long after they leave her classroom.

“My goal isn’t just for them to recite those words today, but for them to believe them and carry them with them for the rest of their lives,” she says.

Ellen says one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is the relationships she builds over time.

“Every year brings a new landscape, and every day a new story,” she says.

From former students stopping by to say hello to parents sharing their gratitude years later, those full-circle moments remind her of the lasting impact of her work.

Even during challenging times, Ellen says it’s those moments of connection and breakthrough that keep her going.

“I’ve come to realize that bad days come and go, but the joy of a breakthrough or a connection is what remains,” she says.

Being named an Outstanding Teacher is an honor she says reflects not only her efforts, but the support system around her.

“This recognition isn’t just about my work; it’s a testament to my incredible family and community of professionals who have supported me every step of the way,” she says.

For Ellen Miller, the mission is to create a classroom where students feel safe, inspired and excited to learn.

“Teaching is not a job,” she says. “It’s a joy.”