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Woodrow Wilson School No. 19
Teacher of the Year

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Ms. Yolanda Saavedra
Bilingual In-Class Support Teacher
Choosing to become a bilingual teacher was shaped by a blend of experiences and convictions. Having immigrated to the United States from Colombia, I intimately understand the challenges and opportunities that come with learning a new language and adapting to a different cultural context. Arriving in the U.S., I embarked on a journey of linguistic and cultural immersion, navigating the complexities of mastering English while cherishing and preserving my Colombian heritage. This experience not only fueled my passion for languages but also instilled in me a deep empathy for bilingual learners who, like myself, embark on the journey of language acquisition in a new environment.
As a bilingual teacher, I am committed to creating inclusive and supportive learning environments where students from diverse linguistic backgrounds can thrive. Drawing from my own experiences as a bilingual learner, I empathize with the challenges they may face and strive to provide tailored support to meet their unique needs. By embracing bilingualism as a strength rather than a barrier, I aim to empower my students to navigate the world with confidence and cultural competence, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed academically and thrive as global citizens.
I view teaching as a journey of discovery and growth for both myself and my students. My personal feelings are rooted in a deep sense of responsibility to guide and support each student in their educational journey, recognizing that every individual has unique strengths, challenges, and potential. What makes me an outstanding teacher is my unwavering commitment to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment where students feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them.
In ensuring my students are connected to the lessons I teach and the world around them, I prioritize building strong relationships based on trust, respect, and empathy. By getting to know my students on a personal level, understanding their interests, backgrounds, and learning styles, I tailor my teaching approach to meet their individual needs and interests. This personalized approach not only fosters a deeper connection to the curriculum but also cultivates a sense of ownership and responsibility for their own learning. Through engaging activities, meaningful discussions, and reflective exercises, I strive to instill a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom, empowering my students to go out into the world with confidence and curiosity.
Educational Service Professional of the Year

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Ms. Nagwan Abdelmalak
Personal Assistant
I have always had a strong passion for becoming a teacher. Working with children holds a special place in my heart because of how much I value the education and growth of my own children. I wanted to share my excitement for education in our youth and help children see their potential even at an early age. I love being able to provide the students with the help they need to flourish in their academic lives and see the best versions of themselves every day. Especially when working with special education students, it is important that every student identifies their ability and can be strong in their individuality. The most rewarding feeling is seeing a student’s excitement when they begin to genuinely believe in themselves and further their intelligence. It has been an honor guiding my students into their educational capabilities and I am glad to be a part of this step towards success.
My role in the classroom is ultimately to encourage each student to see themselves as great and intelligent individuals. I work with special education students and help guide them through their learning alongside caring for their individual necessities. I believe all students, from all backgrounds and differences, have the right to a proper education. I put my emphasis on bringing a cheerful outlook and focusing on the implementation of inclusivity and individuality within the classroom. Finding what each child needs to grow and helping them implement that is the key to a student’s success. Alongside this, motivating students to persevere in the face of challenging obstacles is something I do very well. It can be extremely hard for students to overcome fears and obstacles due to a lack of confidence in the classroom. I try to always give the students all the resources and guidance they need to find their conviction and believe in themselves, and the accomplishment always flows naturally!