Editor’s note: To read profiles of all 2016 Blackboard Awards honorees, click HERE!
Diana Lambert
Grades 6-8, Instrumental Music
Simon Baruch Middle School—M.S. 104
Tell us about some of the special joys and challenges you’ve experienced as a teacher.
Some of the most special joys that I’ve been able to experience as a teacher stem from very simple moments in the classroom. Watching my students pick up an instrument and ultimately be able to put on a full performance is such an inspiring process to witness. I find such joy in seeing my students teach each other new skills and techniques on their instruments.
Please share a special project or achievement that you are particularly proud of from this year.
I am extremely proud of my students’ Winter and Spring Concerts. Most of my students are total beginners and have never been involved in a performance before, which makes this process challenging but exciting. I never hear a complaint from any student when I ask if they will help during the preparation process. Each and every student is eager and proud to help with every step along the way.
Over the course of your career, what do you consider your greatest accomplishments?
One of my greatest accomplishments would be creating an environment of respect and empathy for all in my classroom. I work with a variety of different learners from a range of backgrounds. My students learn very quickly that once they enter my room, they must respect one another and try their best to keep their attitudes positive.
What keeps you motivated and committed to being a dedicated and hard-working educator?
I am driven by the students that are waiting for me outside of the school at 7am every day, even though they know they can’t come into the building that early. The fact that they will show up so early every day with the hope that they can come inside and just help me clean my room/set up for the day consistently amazes me.
