Editor’s note: To read profiles of all 2015-2016 Blackboard Awards honorees, click HERE!
Janeen Nelson
Grade 3, Reading Specialist
James Weldon Johnson Leadership Academy—P.S. 57 M
Tell us about some of the special joys and challenges you’ve experienced as a teacher.
Every day, I joyfully experience the realization that I am shaping future minds. I have the privilege of helping my students to not only get to know who they are now, but also who they want to become. I actively participate in advancing their social, emotional, and educational development. There is no better job out there. I share in their triumphs and disappointments. Ultimately, I watch them grow into more virtuous human beings, as they realize their full potential.
The challenges I face involve ensuring that every child is exposed to the opportunities that are available to him/her and giving him/her the confidence to pursue dreams and desires. I stand as their advocate, which is not always easy. With all of the current pressures and demands on teachers and teaching, I have to remain focused on what really matters: the children. Marian Wright Edelman said it best when she said, “If we don’t stand up for children, then we don’t stand for much.”
Please share a special project or achievement (or two) that you are particularly proud of from this year.
I am particularly proud of the healthy eating initiative we have begun through our Appleseed Garden Program. We were concerned about the health of our students. With high rates of childhood diabetes and asthma, we started a program where we could make the most impact and greatest difference. As children sampled the produce and used recipes to create dishes, they were then encouraged to take them home and try them with their families. The children also spent time with a renowned chef and were able to experience healthier cooking methods. As a result, we have seen an increase in vegetable consumption in our cafeteria. Currently, we are branching out and hosting a YouthMarket where the students will sell produce to families in our school community. They will also conduct tastings and give out samples in the hope of creating more healthy bodies and minds.
Over the course of your career, what do you consider one or two of your greatest accomplishments?
I consider my ongoing relationships with parents and students as one of my greatest accomplishments. I hear about their continued progress firsthand, because I have become a part of their network. I have become a part of their family. To interact with a child for the year that you are teaching him is truly a gift, but when that gift continues beyond my classroom it becomes a blessing. Another accomplishment I am truly proud of is our school garden. It is called “The Garden of Dreams.” The garden was a collaboration of students, parents, teachers, and the Horticultural Society of New York. We hold classes, seminars, and cooking demonstrations in our garden. The children have learned not only to appreciate the earth, but also what it provides.
What drives you? What keeps you motivated and committed to being a dedicated and hard-working educator?
My students drive me and keep me motivated. Knowing that I am making a difference as my students gain new insights, discover more about their subjects, and develop their own voice and viewpoint is invaluable. My joy increases as they grow. In those moments when they really “get it,” I light up as much as they do. My job becomes all the more worthwhile when I see that they have accomplished their goals.
Any special advice for parents on how they can best support their children academically at the grade level you teach? And more generally? And how they can have the most productive relationship with their children’s teacher and school?
Parents are a teacher’s greatest resource and advocate. Make sure your child’s teacher has the inside track. Don’t wait for the teacher to get to know your child. Give them the much needed insight that will enhance not only the child’s learning experiences, but also the teacher’s connection to your child. Also, make sure you have an ongoing rapport. Communication helps to support any learning initiatives, behavior modifications, and the general academic life of your child. Exposure to educational activities, trips, and a variety of literature can advance your child’s progress. Books are the gateway to increased literacy, vocabulary, and listening skills. Take time to read with your child and discuss what you have read together.
